Want a Building Permit? Draft Legislation Says Ask Your Neighbors First

The Citizens Association of Georgetown has drafted a legislative amendment that would require any project seeking a permit for exterior alterations or additions to first contact neighboring properties about the proposed plans. 

If you were ever caught off guard by the arrival of a construction truck or the appearance of a new fence next door, new proposed legislation from CAG is for you. 

A draft bill would amend the Historic Landmark and Historic District Protection Act of 1978 to require neighbor notification of proposed alterations to properties in Georgetown. (See attached PDF).

"CAG frequently receives calls from neighbors about building projects after the design review had been completed, the permit issued and construction of something the neighbors believe is totally inappropriate in a historic neighborhood has commenced," according to a notice from CAG about the organization's proposed legislative amendment.

CAG suggests that the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs adopt a requirement that the owners of properties subject to historic review in Georgetown provide a copy of proposed plans to abutting and adjacent properties. 

Currently there is no requirement that neighbors be made aware of any project, though the Advisory Neighborhood Commission generally encourages such practices and takes into consideration the opinions of neighbors during design review. 

The ANC heard CAG's proposal at the ANC2E meeting Monday night and said it would wait to weigh in until the proposed amendment had been circulated in the community for comment and review.

Do you think owners should be required to tell neighbors about new alterations to the exterior of their property? Tell us in the comments.