The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), established by municipal ordinance in 1987, is charged with conserving, protecting, enhancing and perpetuating the landmarks, properties and improvements within the Glen Ridge Historic District. This District, comprising over 80 percent of Glen Ridge, runs roughly from Dodd Street in the north to Carteret Street in the South.

By ordinance, all exterior changes which can be seen from any street (regardless of existing or future trees, shrubs, or other landscaping) to the houses and properties in the Historic District are subject to review by the HPC before a Building Permit for such changes is issued. The Commission strives to assist owners in planning renovations or remodeling to meet the historic preservation criteria and standards. HPC meetings are held monthly in the Council Chambers at Borough Hall, and, by law, are open to the public.

An applicant for a Building Permit for any work fitting the above criteria (also, see "EXCEPTIONS" below) will be required first to file an application for the HPC, and to appear personally before the Commission with the builder, contractor or architect before the HPC at their monthly meeting (usually the first Wednesday of each month). Applications must be accompanied by photographs of the property as it exists, sketches to scale, working drawings, or architectural elevations of the proposed work, and samples of materials, where appropriate. In reviewing applications, the Commission considers the visual compatibility of the proposed alteration with the structure, its history, and its surroundings.

The following are some of the actions which require the approval of the Historic Preservation Commission before a Building Permit can be issued:

• Application of new roofing or siding if using a material other than that presently on a structure
• Alteration of structures such as the house or garage, or of some portion of a structure, e.g., porches, decks, or new additions
• Moving, adding or removing windows or doors
• Changing or covering any portion of the exterior, e.g., with vinyl or aluminum
• Demolition or removal of any exterior structure
• Building any new structure
• The Commission does not oppose changes, but seeks to ensure that any changes do not detract from the historic character of the Historic District.

EXCEPTIONS: The HPC does not review paint or roof color, or roof materials if they are the same as the existing materials. Window and door replacement, if there is no alteration of the original opening or material, do not require HPC approval, although the Commission welcomes applicants wishing to consult them.

The Building Department of the Borough of Glen Ridge can provide further specific information. Call 973-748-8444 and ask for the Construction Code Official. Also, any of the HPC members (below) will be happy to answer any questions. If in doubt, ask!