Overview

Our neighborhood is a nationally and locally recognized historic district known as the Springfield Historic District. As a historic district, there are special rules to build, alter, or renovate properties in Springfield. Property owners are required to apply for a special permit, called a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA), before making exterior changes to their property, in addition to any other required permits such as a building permit.

Design Guidelines

The rules that govern architectural design in the historic district are known as the Springfield Design Guidelines. These guidelines were formalized in 1992 and provide general recommendations for appropriate architectural design in Springfield. In addition to these guidelines, the City of Jacksonville Historic Preservation Section provides supplemental guidelines to address design elements in more depth. Property owners can use these materials to ensure their design choices align with historic district standards.

• Historic Preservation Guidelines for the Springfield Historic District
• Fencing and Wall Guidelines
• Door Design Guidelines
• Window Supplement
• Window Survey

Historic District Protections

Properties in the Springfield Historic District that are considered architecturally significant are called "contributing" structures because they contribute to the historic character of the community. Both contributing and non-contributing structures require a Certificate of Appropriateness before building, alterations, or renovations can be performed, but the design guidelines are stricter for contributing structures. That said, even non-contributing and new construction properties require a Certificate of Appropriateness before beginning work on the property.

Use the JaxGIS Land Development Review maps to determine if a property is in the Springfield Historic District. Use this guide to navigate the JaxGIS maps.

The City of Jacksonville maintains the list of Contributing and Non-Contributing Properties and is searchable by address. Each contributing structure has an accompanying survey. Springfield Preservation and Revitalization maintains original hard copies available for review and research by appointment or during business hours. Electronic copies are available for review and research through the Historic Springfield Society. Email [email protected] for research assistance or to schedule an appointment to review the archives.

Contributing structures in the historic district are the most protected. Non-contributing structures and new construction in the historic district are also protected. All properties in the historic district require a Certificate of Appropriateness before exterior alterations or new construction can commence. Although rare, some properties outside the historic district are protected via landmark status.

(A map of the Springfield Historic District)

Certificate of Appropriateness

All properties in the historic district require a Certificate of Appropriateness before exterior alterations or new construction can commence, including work on roofs, fences, doors, windows, siding, garages or secondary structures, sidewalks, driveways, curb cuts, etc. The Certificate of Appropriateness is in addition any other required permits such as building or utility permits. Please also note that many trees are protected and require special permits before removal.

Property owners can apply for a Certificate of Appropriateness through the City of Jacksonville Historic Preservation Section. Many minor modifications can be administratively approved; major modifications must be approved by a vote of the Historic Preservation Commission. The Certificate of Appropriateness Matrix Criteria provides guidance on which types of modifications qualify for administrative approval and which types of modifications require a vote of the Commission. Watch our recorded webinar for step-by-step instructions to apply for a Certificate of Appropriateness.

Certificates of Appropriateness are public records and can be reviewed through the City of Jacksonville Land Use & Zoning Portal. Select "Inquire Application" and use "Show Advanced Search" to search by address.

Springfield Preservation and Revitalization offers educational and technical assistance for researchers and property owners who are interested in making changes to the exterior of their home or property. Our Design Review Committee consists of planners, architects, engineers, and other professionals who can provide insight and support. Email [email protected] for more information on research and technical assistance available through the Design Review Committee.

Financial Incentives

The City of Jacksonville offers financial incentives for certain types of historic preservation projects:

• The Historic Preservation Property Tax Exemption provides a limited time, partial ad valorem tax exemption on the added value to the property for property owners who complete an approved qualified improvement project.
  
  
• The Restore Endangered Historic Adaptable Buildings (REHAB) Special Revenue Fund provides grant funds for the rehabilitation of certain historic properties that are income-producing, mixed-use or owned by a not-for-profit corporation.

Compliance and Enforcement

The City of Jacksonville Municipal Code Compliance Division enforces property maintenance, safety, and zoning codes, including historic design rules, and inspects properties to confirm compliance with an approved Certificate of Appropriateness.

To report a violation or request an inspection, call 904-630-CITY or use the MyJax online portal or phone app.

Additional Support

Email [email protected] for additional questions or support. We are happy to help with research and technical assistance.