Did you know that Montgomery County, MD is the same age as our nation as a whole? Yep! 1776 was the year of establishment. Many of the residential properties in the county built in that mid-18th century timeframe are still standing today! These and similar properties are protected and preserved by The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, which exists more specifically for the following purpose. . .
“to provide for the identification, designation and regulation, for purposes of protection, preservation and continued use and enhancement, of those sites, structures with their appurtenances and environmental settings, and districts of historical, archeological, architectural or cultural value in that portion of the county which is within the Maryland-Washington Regional District. Its further purpose is to preserve and enhance the quality of life in the county, safeguard the historical and cultural heritage of the county, strengthen the local economy, stabilize and improve property values in and around such historical areas, foster civic beauty and to preserve continued utilization and pleasure of the citizens of the county, the state, and the United States of America.”
What does this mean for homeowners in this county?
Any property deemed historic in Montgomery County, MD is under strict preservation regulations when it comes to making any exterior or interior changes. This may include home additions, decks and hardscaping, roof or siding replacements, even painting. More importantly to our company and to the purpose of this blog. . . the preservation commission has strict regulations regarding fences. In addition to obtaining a Montgomery County fence permit, any new or replacement fence must be reviewed and approved by the commission, who will issue a Historic Area Work Permit or HAWP. The HAWP must be submitted to the County’s permitting department before a Montgomery County fence permit can be released.
How do I know If my property is within a historic district?
The Montgomery County Planning department maintains archives of all historic areas which are available to the public online. Click any of the green dots on the MCATLAS map and you will be provided with a link by which to view plans, details, photos, interesting facts about the history of the property, even previous applications made for alterations to the property. You never know what interesting additional records you might come across!
What styles of fence are allowed within historic districts?
The preservation commission “prefers” wood styles of fencing within historic districts; however, existing fences of various other materials may be approved for replacement. Examples of acceptable and desirable wood fence styles include sandwich board privacy fencing or various styles of picket fencing, such as Fredericktown or Victorian. We believe these options complement most existing historic dwellings in the Montgomery County, MD area.
How do I apply for a new or replacement fence at my historic property?
The first step is to submit a generic application on the DPS website. Then, a detailed application packet must be filled out/compiled and submitted to the HAWP email address. The commission will automatically place the submission on a meeting schedule to be reviewed by the committee at a physical hearing, which must be attended by the applicant or homeowner. That said, if the proposed fence is an “approved style” (see above), it may be reviewed and approved at the administrative level, avoiding the physical meeting. Such applications are usually approved within a shorter timeframe.
Once a HAWP has been issued, it needs to be submitted along with your plans for fencing to Montgomery County. The county will NOT issue a fence permit until the Historic Area Work Permit is provided.
Need help with your HAWP for a fence?
When you choose Frederick Fence Company, we will handle your Historic Area Work Permit AND Montgomery County fence permit application for you! Working with us means peace of mind when it comes to residential permits, HAWP’s, easements, and public utilities. We handle everything we can so you don’t have to!
Ready for your fencing estimate in a historic district? Call 301-663-4000 to schedule! We look forward to hearing from you.
Written by Laura Braden, 6-year Frederick Fence Company team member.
