Why Single-Unit Dwelling Demolition Notification?#

Note: This notification process applies to proposed demolitions of single-unit dwellings over fifty years of age that are not designated City Landmarks or in City Landmark Districts to be replaced by a new single-unit dwelling. Notification for the demolition of structures at least fifty years old related to non-single-unit-dwelling projects (e.g., duplex, mixed use, etc.) occurs through the development review notification process. Partial demolitions for alteration projects* do not have a notification requirement under this procedure.

Demolition notification provides an opportunity to ensure important historic, architectural, and cultural resources are not lost without consideration, pursuant to Section 14-6 and Chapter 14, Article III of Municipal Code. This process applies to single-unit dwellings at least fifty years old proposed for demolition and replacement with a new single-unit dwelling. It provides an opportunity for community members to receive notice about the proposed demolition and consider taking action to protect the property through designation, as provided by City Code.

Property owner(s) of record can request to initiate the Single-Unit Dwelling Demolition Notification process by contacting Historic Preservation Services and submitting:

• A statement requesting the initiation of the Single-Unit Dwelling Demolition Notification process
• A confirmation that the proposed new construction would be a single-unit residence, and, if available, proposed plans
• Photos of all sides of the house and any secondary structures proposed for demolition

Once initiated, the notification process includes:

• A "Notice of Demolition" sign posted in front of the property
• Posting on the notification table below, including a link to any related historic survey, if available
• Inclusion in the weekly This Week in Development Review newsletter and monthly Historic Preservation Matters newsletter
• Direct notification to the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) at their next available meeting
• At the HPC meeting, the item will appear on the consent agenda along with a staff-prepared summary of any easily accessible historical information about the property, and historic survey results if available. Anyone wishing to speak about the item may request that it be pulled for discussion.

Until the notification process is complete and demolition permits are signed off on by Historic Preservation Services staff, certain parties are eligible to initiate a Landmark nomination process against the wishes of a property owner by submitting the necessary information based on the procedure outlined in Section 14-31 of the Fort Collins Municipal Code to Historic Preservation Services. This includes: three or more residents of the city by petition and submission of a complete application, the HPC by motion, or City Councilmembers in writing (contact preservation@fcgov.com for additional information). 

The Single-Unit Dwelling Demolition Notification process is considered complete after the HPC meeting at which the notification item appears. Provided that no non-owner-supported Landmark nomination procedures have been initiated, Staff can remove "holds" and sign off on any related demolition permit applications the day after the HPC meeting.

If six months pass after the completion of the demolition notification process without the owner/applicant demolishing the building and without applying for a new single-unit dwelling building permit for the subject location, then the demolition notification process must be repeated.

Note: Demolition permits for secondary structures on properties over fifty years of age are not subject to this demolition review process, but may still need to comply with the design review provisions of Chapter 14, Article IV of Municipal Code. 

*To be considered an "Alteration," a minimum of one full exterior elevation (wall) must be retained. If proposed demolition exceeds this limitation, the project shall be considered as a full demolition, and this notification process is required. (Building Services - Chief Building Official code interpretation memo dated 4/6/2023)

Revised July 19, 2024