Download a PDF of the COA Application

If you are planning work on the exterior of your building, and your property is located in the Historic Overlay District or the Entrance Corridor Overlay District, please contact the Scottsville Zoning Administrator’s Office at 434.286.9267 in advance. The Scottsville Architectural Review Board (ARB) is tasked with reviewing many exterior projects prior to the issuance of a building permit. While minor changes are exempt from review by the ARB, it is better to check in advance prior to commencing your project.

If the Zoning Administrator determines that a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) from the ARB is required, he will provide you with a simple application form. The ARB meets once a month, and applications must be submitted prior to the deadline for the next meeting. If you are planning a major project, you may want to meet with the Chair of the ARB for a pre-application meeting.

The application form indicates what must be submitted to be reviewed by the Architectural Review Board. Adding a fence to your property might require only a small sketch, whereas a new building might require detailed plans and exterior elevations. The Town Zoning Administrator and/or Chair of the Architectural Review Board can assist you with your application.

Once the application is submitted, it will be forwarded to the Architectural Review Board for review at a regularly scheduled meeting. The Board requires that you or a representative attend the meeting to present the project and be available to answer any questions. Most projects require only one meeting. In the event that yours is a complex project and more material is needed, or if the design you submit is in conflict with the Scottsville Historic District Guidelines, more meetings may be required.

Upon approval by the ARB, the building permit proceeds through the normal process for new construction, in conformance with state and national building codes.

If you are denied a Certificate of Appropriateness, you may return to the Board with suggested alternatives that the Board may wish to consider for approval. You also may appeal the Architectural Review Board’s decision
to the Town Council. The Town Administrator can provide you with the necessary directions and information regarding appeals.