Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) are required prior to most exterior alterations within the Historic District Overlay.  Proposed projects are reviewed and approved to ensure that the planned changes are consistent with the Design Standards set forth in the Zoning Ordinance.  Applications are reviewed by the Historic Zoning Commission.  These include any new construction, additions, relocation, demolitions (full or partial, signs, awnings, fences or walls, window replacements, and alterations/repair of a building that requires a building permit (routine maintenance of siding or roofing is excluded).

*Effective June 1st, 2026, all planning requests/ applications will be processed through our online submittal portal GeoCivix.

Click here to be taken directly to GeoCivix for more information & to submit your request.

Activities that do NOT require a Certificate of Appropriateness

• Interior modifications of any kind

• Landscaping, including gardens, shrubs, and trees

• Other routine repairs and maintenance

• Repainting 

• Repairs to walks, driveways, fences and patios

• Repairs to siding, trim, railings, shingles, etc. that match existing materials

PROCEDURE

Step 1: (Optional) Preliminary Meeting
A preliminary meeting with staff prior to the application submittal is not required but is helpful for many applicants. Staff will assist in determining whether the application falls under the review of the Historic Zoning Commission. 

To schedule a meeting, please contact the Planning Department at (615)776-6704 or via email at Planning@nolensvilletn.gov

Step 2: Historic Zoning Certificate of Appropriateness Application Submittal 
The COA Application must be submitted according to the Historic Zoning Commission submittal schedule.  For a list of requirements see the Certificate of Appropriateness Checklist.

Step 3: Staff Review and Comments
Staff shall review the submittal for completeness and will provide comments to the applicant, generally two weeks prior to the meeting to allow adequate time to address any issues that may arise.  Staff will prepare a staff report and make a recommendation to the Historic Zoning Commission.

Step 4: Historic Zoning Commission - Final Action
The Historic Zoning Commission will review the application and take final action as the approving body for Certificates of Appropriateness.   

Step 5: Next Steps
Once the COA is granted, the applicant may proceed forward.  The approved COA should be included with any subsequent application for a site plan, building permit or sign permit.