Historic Preservation Commission Meeting

Summary

The Historic Preservation Commission met on December 3, 2025, to review and act on several applications for Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) and one National Register Nomination. Key actions included:

• Recommended approval of the National Register Nomination for the Downtown Oklahoma City Historic District.
• Approved Consent Docket items (HPCA-25-00109 and HPCA-25-00134) for window replacements in the Crown Heights neighborhood.
• Approved with conditions several cases for individual consideration, including additions, reconstructions, and replacements at various properties in Crown Heights, Mesta Park, Jefferson Park, and Paseo neighborhoods. Some items were continued for further information.
• Denied without prejudice specific items related to driveway and sidewalk replacements for HPCA-25-00099.
• Recommended approval with conditions for SPUD-01791, a rezoning request for 424 NW 27th Street, to the Planning Commission.
• Noted administrative approvals, withdrawals, and administrative closings for various cases.

Citizen Impact

Residents involved in historic property renovations or seeking to nominate historic districts can see progress on their applications and nominations. Decisions made impact the preservation and character of historic neighborhoods.

Confidence

high

Summary

This report details code enforcement inspections completed between November 21, 2025, and December 26, 2025, primarily within the HP District. Inspections covered various violations including dead or diseased trees, high grass/weeds, and junk/debris. Several properties received violation notices, while others were marked as 'Nuisance Abated' or received extensions. Specific addresses and case numbers are listed for each inspection.

Citizen Impact

This report highlights enforcement actions on property maintenance issues like overgrown weeds and debris, aiming to improve neighborhood aesthetics and safety.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Historic Preservation Commission is considering an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness (HPCA-25-00075) for the property at 709 NW 16th Street in the Mesta Park historic district. The application, submitted by EXR Construction on behalf of owner Maria Muller, proposes to replace five existing vinyl window sashes and frames with new wooden frames and sashes. Two windows on the south (front) elevation will be changed from a one-over-one configuration to a four-over-one configuration, replicating historic windows. The remaining three windows on the east and west elevations will be replaced with one-over-one wood sashes, matching the existing condition and historic precedent for those elevations. Staff recommends approval, noting that while vinyl is not an appropriate material, the proposed wood replacements are historically appropriate and the existing vinyl is failing.

Citizen Impact

This item involves the replacement of existing vinyl windows with historically appropriate wood windows at a property in the Mesta Park historic district. Residents in or near historic districts should be aware of standards for window replacements to maintain historic character.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Historic Preservation Commission is considering an application (HPCA-25-00140) from LCI Family Revocable Trust for work at 915 NW 15th Street. The proposed work involves closing a rear window opening and installing an exterior stove vent. The window is currently closed on the interior but remains open on the exterior wall. The applicant proposes to close the exterior opening with matching brick and install a 10x10.5x10.5 inch stove vent near the top of the former window location. This work is considered "elective" and is located on the rear elevation, not visible from the public right-of-way. Staff recommends approval, finding that the work will not adversely affect the historic character of the district or property.

Citizen Impact

This item involves a minor exterior modification to a private residence. The proposed work, including closing a rear window and installing a stove vent, is not visible from the public right-of-way and is therefore unlikely to have a direct impact on residents in the neighborhood.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Historic Preservation Commission is considering an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness (HPCA-25-00144) for the property at 1528 NW 37th Street. The applicant, Green Okie LLC, seeks approval to construct a wood pergola with an acrylic roof panel system on the rear elevation of the primary dwelling. The pergola will be situated over an existing concrete pad and will consist of two sections, measuring approximately 13'x13' and 7'x12'. While the proposed pergola exceeds the 9-foot height guideline by 1.5 feet, staff notes it appears proportional to the dwelling and will not be readily visible from the public right-of-way. The acrylic panels will be concealed by a wood fascia, mitigating potential visual impact. The proposed work is elective and is not expected to increase existing lot coverage.

Citizen Impact

This item concerns a proposed backyard pergola at 1528 NW 37th Street. As the structure will be in the rear yard and not visible from the street, the direct impact on neighbors and the public is minimal, primarily relating to maintaining the historic character of the Putnam Heights district.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns a Certificate of Appropriateness for property at 1601 Classen Drive in the Heritage Hills Historic District. The applicant, Brent Wall of LAUD Studio, seeks approval for numerous alterations, primarily focused on the rear of the property. Key proposed actions include:

• Demolition: A four-foot stucco wall along the west side, a wood shed, a southern wood fence, and an existing pool and deck.
• Construction: A new six-foot tall stucco fence along the west side, a chain-link fence along the south, a new pool and decking, concrete paths, patios, landscape walls, planters, landscaping, and lighting.
• Site Alterations: Modifying topography for the pool and demolishing/installing sidewalks and paths.

Staff recommends approval for all items, noting that most proposed work is in the backyard and not visible from the public right-of-way, thus having minimal adverse effect on the historic character. The total site coverage will increase from 30.4% to 37.8%.

Citizen Impact

This application involves significant changes to a private property's rear yard, including the demolition of an existing pool and fences and the construction of new ones, a pool, and landscaping. These changes are primarily on private property and are not expected to directly impact residents' daily lives, beyond maintaining the aesthetic of the historic district.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Historic Preservation Commission is considering an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness for the property at 1703 N Hudson Avenue. The application, submitted by LAUD Studio on behalf of owners Matthew and Mary Austin, has two elective items:

1. Reinstall landscape walks and entries: This involves replacing crushed aggregate with planting materials and installing a 16-inch-wide reclaimed brick border around garden beds on the south and east elevations. It also includes replacing a concrete walkway in front of the garage with new concrete matching the existing material. Staff recommends approval, finding it maintains continuity of materials and character.
2. Install fence: The proposal is for a four (4) foot tall transparent metal fence that matches existing railing. While it doesn't meet administrative approval criteria due to its placement near the front wall in the side yard, staff recommends approval based on unique circumstances. These include alignment with existing landscape screening, meeting all other criteria (height, transparency), and enclosing the only usable side yard while maintaining transparency on the corner lot.

Citizen Impact

This item concerns exterior property modifications at a historic residence. Residents may notice aesthetic changes to the property's landscaping and the addition of a fence, which are subject to historic preservation guidelines.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Historic Preservation Commission is considering an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness for the property at 2019 N Shartel Avenue (Mesta Park, Ward 6). The applicant, Jollybird Design for Eric Keplinger, seeks to construct a 100 square foot garage addition to the existing non-historic garage. The addition will be located on the north façade and within the rear yard, partially utilizing existing attic space to create a second story. The total garage footprint will increase from 400 sq ft to 500 sq ft, resulting in a lot coverage of 42.2%. The proposed materials, including wood clad windows and fiberglass doors, are generally compliant, though the visible light transmittance of the windows is noted as a potential issue. Staff recommends approval, finding the addition minimally visible from the right-of-way and compatible with surrounding structures.

Citizen Impact

This item concerns a property owner's request to expand their existing garage. There is no direct impact on other residents, as the proposed addition is on private property and is minimally visible from the street.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Historic Preservation Commission is considering an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness for 531 NW 36th Terrace to construct an addition including a greenhouse, covered patio, and garage. The proposed addition significantly increases the living space by 864 square feet and the total footprint (including garage and greenhouse) by 1241 square feet, exceeding the Historic Preservation Guidelines' allowance of 750 square feet or 50% of the existing footprint. Staff notes concerns that the addition's size, width, and certain architectural features like the porch roof design may overwhelm the historic structure and not be sufficiently secondary. The applicant argues for exceptions due to the necessity of a functional two-car garage and a non-conditioned sunroom, and that the overage is minor in proportion to the total expanded square footage. The staff recommends approval with conditions, specifically modifying window spacing and porch roof design, citing a unique circumstance where the addition's size exceeds guidelines but is deemed compatible due to massing and limited visibility.

Citizen Impact

This item concerns a proposed addition to a historic home. While the direct impact on most residents is minimal, it sets a precedent for development within historic districts, potentially influencing future renovation and addition projects in similar neighborhoods.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns a Certificate of Appropriateness application for 300 NW 18th Street (Heritage Hills, Ward 6) to replace a fence. The applicant, Mike Lee representing owner Deborah Clark, proposes replacing a wood stockade fence on the eastern property line with a wood stockade fence featuring decorative iron paneling. The proposed fence height is 6'-8", which exceeds the 6-foot height limit for side yard fences in historic districts when visible from the public right-of-way. The staff report notes that while fences are typically administratively approved, this proposal does not meet the Design and Sustainability Standards and Guidelines for Oklahoma City Historic Districts due to its height and visibility. Staff recommends approving the fence replacement with the condition that the applicant submit documentation for a fence no taller than 6 feet.

Citizen Impact

Residents in the Heritage Hills historic district should be aware that proposed fence replacements are subject to height restrictions to maintain neighborhood character. This specific application requires modification to comply with the 6-foot height limit for side yard fences visible from the street.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Historic Preservation Commission is considering an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness (HPCA-25-00119) for the property at 441 NW 29th Street, located in the Jefferson Park Historic District. The applicant, Maika LLC, seeks to remove all existing wood siding and components and replace them with LP SmartSide, a wood composite material. The staff report notes that while the Municipal Code and Historic Standards require maintenance of historic structures and replacement in-kind when necessary, the use of composite siding for total replacement is generally discouraged. The staff recommends continuing the item to require the applicant to provide further documentation proving that at least 50% of the siding on each side is deteriorated beyond repair and to specify that smooth, painted wood matching the existing material is the appropriate treatment, rather than composite siding.

Citizen Impact

This item affects residents by setting a precedent for the types of materials that can be used for exterior renovations in historic districts. The commission's decision will influence whether historic wood siding must be replaced with identical materials or if composite alternatives like LP SmartSide are permitted.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns a Certificate of Appropriateness application for 523 NW 18th Street in the Mesta Park historic district. The applicant, Jollybird Design for Sara Farzaneh (Sapphire Estates), seeks approval for two elective items: 1) the construction of a new two-story garage, and 2) the installation of a rear gate.

Key Issues and Staff Recommendation:

• Two-Story Garage: Staff recommends denial of the two-story garage, citing non-compliance with historic guidelines. Concerns include:
  • Size and Massing: The proposed 860 sq ft garage (25'-3" tall) significantly exceeds the guideline allowance of 450 sq ft for new garages on this lot. Historically, the property had a one-story garage, and guidelines generally do not support replacing a one-story structure with a two-story one unless specific conditions are met.
  • Lot Coverage: The proposed garage would increase lot coverage from 58% to 61%, exceeding the R-1 zone maximum of 50% and potentially impacting drainage.
  • Height: The proposed height is considered too tall for an accessory structure.
  • Alternative 1.5-Story Garage: An alternative 1.5-story design (21'-7" tall) was also presented. While closer to guidelines, it still exceeds the 450 sq ft allowance and has issues with upper floor wall height (4' instead of the allowed 3').
  • Materials and Details: Additional information is required regarding window glass (VLT), the proposed gate, fencing, and carport materials.
• Rear Gate: Staff recommends approval for the rear gate, noting it will be minimally visible as it's located off the rear alley and encloses a proposed carport.

Overall Staff Recommendation: Deny both items (garage and gate) without prejudice, citing adverse effects on the historic character and non-compliance with guidelines and municipal code.

Citizen Impact

Residents in the Mesta Park historic district should be aware that this application proposes a two-story garage significantly larger than historic guidelines allow, potentially setting a precedent for future accessory structure development. The staff recommends denial due to non-compliance with historic preservation standards.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Historic Preservation Commission is considering an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness at 326 NW 15th Street (Heritage Hills, Ward 6) for property owners James and Miranda Grant. The application, submitted by Posh Pools (Nancy Chestnut), proposes two main items:

1. Installation of a pool: A 15'x32' swimming pool with mechanical equipment, concrete decking (225 sq ft), and a concrete pad (10'x15') for seating. The pool and associated elements will be located in the rear yard and are not expected to significantly alter the lot coverage (remaining under 50%). Staff recommends approval, noting the pool's location is not visible from the public right-of-way and mechanical equipment will be screened.
2. Excavation and installation of artificial turf: The applicant proposes excavating approximately half of the rear yard to install 725 sq ft of artificial turf around the pool area. Staff notes that the Guidelines do not explicitly support or prohibit artificial turf. Concerns are raised regarding potential increased stormwater runoff due to the compacted gravel and soil layers beneath the turf, and whether this material aligns with sustainability considerations for historic districts, especially if visible from the right-of-way. Staff's recommendation is to approve this item as well, but with specific findings that its use is not expressly supported or prohibited and may increase water runoff.

Citizen Impact

This item concerns a private property owner's request to install a pool and artificial turf in their backyard within a historic district. Residents may be impacted by potential changes in stormwater runoff from the artificial turf installation, though the pool itself is located in the rear and screened.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item addresses a Certificate of Appropriateness application for 2925 N Harvey Parkway, a 1920 Colonial Revival home located in the Jefferson Park Historic District. The applicant, Tyler Lawler, seeks approval for work already completed: the removal of non-historic storm windows and the replacement of all 26 windows on the property. Staff recommends approval for the storm window removal, as they were non-historic and their removal is not prohibited by guidelines. However, staff recommends continuing the request for window replacement, citing non-compliance with the district's Design and Sustainability Standards and Guidelines.

The applicant replaced historic, true divided light, wood windows (predominantly six over one) with one over one, insulated, Low-E, vinyl windows. The applicant stated the original windows were severely deteriorated and beyond repair, and that replacing all 26 windows with historically appropriate wood windows was financially prohibitive after investing over $55,000 in other renovations. Staff findings indicate that vinyl windows are explicitly not supported by the guidelines, and the proposed windows' Visible Transmittance of .49 is significantly lower than the required .74 for Low-E replacements, making them appear tinted and highly reflective. The replacement windows also do not match the historic muntin pattern or profile, which are character-defining features.

Citizen Impact

Residents in historic districts, particularly in Jefferson Park, are reminded that exterior changes like window replacement require prior approval through a Certificate of Appropriateness to maintain the district's historic character. Property owners must adhere to specific guidelines, which prohibit vinyl windows and require replacements to match historic features, potentially impacting renovation costs and material choices.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Historic Preservation Commission is considering an application (HPCA-25-00146) for a Certificate of Appropriateness at 2215 N Shartel Avenue to renovate and expand an existing garage. The proposal includes increasing the garage's footprint and adding a second story to create a guest suite. The applicant, TASK design, on behalf of owners Dr. Leonardo and Margaretta Baez, aims to make the garage more usable and structurally stable, and to provide private accommodation for family.

Key Considerations and Staff Concerns:

• Materials: Proposed materials like wood grain finish "SmartSide" lap siding and vinyl-clad wood windows are not fully supported by the Historic District Design Guidelines.
• Second Story Addition: The addition of a second story is not typically supported by the Guidelines in this location, as there are no adjacent two-story garages and it may overwhelm the historic structure.
• Demolition: Two of the four walls of the historic garage would be demolished.
• Footprint and Size: The proposed addition would more than double the garage's footprint (from 216 sq ft to 451 sq ft) and add a second story of 398 sq ft.

Staff recommends continuing the item to allow the applicant to provide additional information to ensure compliance with the Design and Sustainability Standards and Guidelines.

Citizen Impact

This item concerns a historic preservation review for a property renovation. Residents in the Mesta Park Historic District should be aware that proposed changes to historic structures, like expanding a garage and adding a second story, are subject to specific design guidelines. The commission's decision could set a precedent for future renovations in the district.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns the approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness (HPCA-25-00151) for the development of a vacant lot at 117 NW 14th Street within the Heritage Hills East Historic District. The application, submitted by Gardner Studio for LAUD Studio, proposes the construction of a new two-story office building and a two-story accessory structure with two tenant spaces. The main building will feature a mix of brick (first level), cedar shingles (second level), and painted horizontal lap siding (gable ends), with a roof ridge height of 35'0". The accessory building will primarily use painted horizontal lap siding. Site work includes removing existing vegetation and demolishing a driveway. Staff recommends approval with conditions requiring further documentation on specific door designs, accessory building lighting, and mechanical equipment screening to ensure full compliance with historic district standards.

Citizen Impact

This project will transform a vacant lot in the Heritage Hills East Historic District into a new commercial office space with additional tenant units, potentially increasing local business activity and changing the streetscape. The approval ensures the new construction adheres to historic design guidelines, preserving the district's character.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Historic Preservation Commission is considering an application from Christopher Beard for a Certificate of Appropriateness at 901 NW 16th Street (Mesta Park, Ward 6) to replace an existing fence and a trellis.

Fence Replacement: The applicant proposes a low, transparent wood fence. Staff notes that while generally compliant with height and material standards, the proposed location may encroach slightly on the sidewalk, which typically requires a revocable permit. However, the fence's high transparency and low height are considered unique circumstances that might support this encroachment.

Trellis Replacement: The applicant seeks to replace an existing trellis gate at the driveway. Documentation regarding the original historic trellis is lacking, but the proposed design is considered compatible with the historic character of the site and embodies the intent of the Standards and Guidelines. Full dimensions for the trellis are pending.

Citizen Impact

This item concerns property maintenance in a historic district. Residents in the Mesta Park area should be aware of potential minor sidewalk encroachment for fences and the process for approving exterior alterations to historic properties.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item is a revision to a previously approved Certificate of Appropriateness (HPCA-25-00008) for the property at 816 NW 22nd Street in Mesta Park. The revision, approved by the Historic Preservation Officer on November 24, 2025, allows for minor changes to the construction of a new accessory structure. Specifically, the applicant, Living Spaces LLC, is permitted to widen the soffit on the new accessory structure from 12 inches to 18 inches and install new pedestrian doors. The original approval was for the construction of the accessory structure, and these are elective revisions. The revised approval is effective December 11, 2025, and expires April 17, 2026.

Citizen Impact

Residents in the Mesta Park historic district should be aware of minor modifications to an approved accessory structure at 816 NW 22nd Street. These changes involve the soffit depth and pedestrian doors, which are considered elective and in conformance with historic preservation guidelines.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Oklahoma City Planning Department has approved a Certificate of Appropriateness (HPCA-25-00075) for the property at 709 NW 16th Street in the Mesta Park historic district. The application, submitted by EXR Construction on behalf of owner Maria Muller, was for the elective replacement of concrete steps. The approval was granted on December 1, 2025, and is effective December 16, 2025, expiring on December 16, 2026.

Citizen Impact

This approval allows for the replacement of concrete steps at a private residence within a historic district. Residents in the Mesta Park area should be aware that exterior alterations are subject to historic preservation guidelines.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Oklahoma City Planning Department has approved a Certificate of Appropriateness (HPCA-25-00137) for the property at 245 W Eubanks Street in the Edgemere Park historic district. The approval is for the installation of storm windows with Low-E glass. The application was submitted by Old Home Rescue on behalf of owner Chad Huntington. The approved windows are powder-coated aluminum storm windows designed to match existing window colors and meet specific design guidelines. The approval is effective from December 23, 2025, to December 23, 2026.

Citizen Impact

Residents in the Edgemere Park historic district should be aware that exterior modifications, such as the installation of storm windows, require a Certificate of Appropriateness. This approval ensures that the new windows meet historic preservation standards, maintaining the character of the neighborhood.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns a Certificate of Appropriateness (HPCA-25-00138) for the property at 1508 Classen Drive in the Heritage Hills historic district. The application, submitted by Ian Gillette, seeks approval to replace an existing chain-link fence. The proposed replacement fence will be an 8-foot-high pine dog-eared picket fence. It will be installed along the property line adjacent to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame parking lot and around the rear perimeter of the property. The "finished" side of the fence will face the street/parking lot. The approval is effective December 4, 2025, and expires December 4, 2026.

Citizen Impact

Residents in the Heritage Hills historic district should be aware that a fence replacement is approved for 1508 Classen Drive. This action is administrative and does not involve new construction or significant changes to public access.

Confidence

high

Summary

The City of Oklahoma City Planning Department has approved a Certificate of Appropriateness (HPCA-25-00141) for the property at 721 NW 26th Street (Paseo Historic Preservation District). The approval is for the elective installation of gutters and downspouts. The proposed gutters will be 5-inch aluminum in a dark bronze color to match existing trim, with 2x3-inch downspouts. This approval is in conformance with the Historic Preservation Ordinance and Design Standards. The approval is effective December 11, 2025, and expires December 11, 2026.

Citizen Impact

This approval allows the homeowner at 721 NW 26th Street to install gutters to manage water drainage, which is a routine property maintenance item within a historic district.

Confidence

high

Summary

This item concerns a Certificate of Appropriateness for property at 816 NW 22nd Street in the Mesta Park historic district. The application by Jonathan Reinke of Living Spaces LLC, representing owner Warren Jones, seeks approval for three elective modifications:

1. Replacement of a portion of the existing fence with a new 6' Cedar privacy fence and conversion of an 8' section into a gate.
2. Relocation of an existing shed to ensure a 6' minimum clearance between buildings.
3. Addition of flagstone walk-off areas outside the entryways of a new accessory structure, set with decomposed granite and mortar to allow water filtration.

The Planning Department staff reviewed the application and determined these items conform with the Historic Preservation Ordinance and Design and Sustainability Standards. The approval is effective December 11, 2025, and expires December 11, 2026.

Citizen Impact

This is a routine request for exterior modifications to a property within a historic district. Residents in the immediate vicinity may notice aesthetic changes related to fencing and accessory structures, but there are no significant impacts on public services or regulations.

Confidence

high

Summary

The Oklahoma City Planning Department has approved a Certificate of Appropriateness (HPCA-25-00143) for the property at 828 NW 15th Street in the Heritage Hills Historic District. The approval is for the elective removal of non-historic red brick planter beds. The application was submitted by Sara Werneke of Old Home Rescue on behalf of owner Aaron Ketter. The removal is intended to address water retention issues that have caused damage, settling, and pest infestation. The project was approved on November 24, 2025, and is effective from December 11, 2025, to December 11, 2026.

Citizen Impact

This approval allows for the removal of planter beds at 828 NW 15th Street which are causing structural issues to the home. This action is intended to preserve the historic character of the property and address maintenance concerns.

Confidence

high