Thinking about updating your Edgemere Park home and not sure where to start with permits? You are not alone. Historic homes need a little extra planning, and the right approvals can save you time, money, and stress. In this guide, you will learn which projects need permits, how the historic review works, realistic timelines, and where incentives might apply. Let’s dive in.
What “historic district” means here
Edgemere Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, added in 1980. That listing opens the door to certain incentives but does not, by itself, control your remodel. Day to day, you follow Oklahoma City’s local Historic Preservation rules, which require review of exterior changes in designated areas. Start with the City’s Historic Preservation page for maps, guidelines, and applications (Edgemere Park is included) at the City’s Historic Preservation hub.
- Edgemere Park’s listing provides context and potential eligibility for incentives, as noted in the National Register district list for Oklahoma County. See the National Register districts list.
- Local rules are what you will work with when you change or add to your home. Review the City’s program overview, design standards, and application materials on the City of Oklahoma City Historic Preservation page.
Which projects need approval
Building permits from Development Services
You generally need a permit any time you construct, alter, repair, enlarge, move, or demolish a structure. Common residential permits include remodels and additions, reroofing, fences, pools, storm shelters, and trade permits for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. Trade permits are issued only to licensed contractors. Review the current list and apply through Development Services.
Historic Preservation review in Edgemere Park
Exterior changes visible from the street, new construction, and demolition within a Historic Preservation district require a Certificate of Approval or Certificate of Appropriateness. Typical examples include window or door changes on visible elevations, porch repairs or enclosures, siding changes, additions, new garages, fences and masonry walls, dormers, and visible solar installations. Start with the City’s guidelines and application on the Historic Preservation page.
When you need both
Many projects need both a building permit and a historic Certificate of Approval. The City recommends getting the historic approval first, although you can submit both applications at the same time. Learn how the two tracks fit together in the City’s Design Review Process.
Step-by-step: How to get approved
- Pre-check with Historic Preservation staff. A quick call or email can confirm if your project is eligible for administrative approval or needs Commission review. Find contacts and forms on the Historic Preservation page.
- Gather documentation. Take clear “before” photos of all sides, sketch the proposed changes, and gather product specs or material samples. The City provides checklists in the application packet.
- Apply for the historic Certificate and your building permits. Submissions can be concurrent, but permit issuance may wait on the historic approval. See the Design Review Process.
- Undergo review. Staff will either approve administratively or schedule you for Historic Preservation Commission review if needed.
- Complete inspections and close out. Once permitted, complete the work and call for inspections per your permit requirements through Development Services.
Timelines and fees to expect
Administrative reviews can take a few weeks when applications are complete. If your project requires Commission review, plan for several weeks to a few months depending on meeting schedules and complexity. The City outlines these ranges in its Design Review Process.
Permit and application fees change periodically, and the City has noted updates for certain historic applications. Check current fees before budgeting on the Development Services permits page.
Enforcement and how to avoid delays
Starting work without required permits or historic approvals can trigger stop-work orders, fines, and costly do-overs. Roofing, in particular, is closely monitored for proper permits. Protect your timeline by confirming that your contractor is state-licensed and registered with the City, and that all permits and approvals are in hand before work begins. You can verify requirements and inspections with Development Services.
Windows, roofs, and additions: what to know
- Windows: Many guidelines favor repairing original windows or using in-kind replacement on primary elevations. The City shares a Historic Window Overview and has hosted restoration workshops. Explore those materials on the Historic Preservation page.
- Roofing: Reroofs typically require a permit, and visible roofing changes in a historic district may also need a Certificate of Approval. Plan ahead to avoid scheduling delays.
- Additions and demolition: Additions and demolition of contributing structures usually require full Commission review with public notice. Expect more time and close coordination with City staff.
Tax credits and when SHPO/NPS apply
If your project is income-producing, you may qualify for historic rehabilitation tax credits. The federal program offers a 20% credit for certified rehabilitation of historic buildings used for income-producing purposes, and it requires State Historic Preservation Office and National Park Service approvals. Review federal eligibility on the National Park Service site and Oklahoma’s state credit statute on Justia’s Oklahoma code resource. Owner-occupied houses typically do not qualify for the federal 20% credit.
If your project uses federal funding, licenses, or permits, a separate Section 106 review may apply. Learn what triggers that process through the Oklahoma SHPO Section 106 overview.
Quick homeowner checklist
- Contact Historic Preservation staff for a pre-application check.
- Photograph existing conditions on all sides and gather specs.
- Submit the historic application and your building permits.
- Verify contractor state licensing and City registration.
- Plan for inspections and final approvals before closing out the project.
Local contacts and resources
- City of Oklahoma City Historic Preservation: program info, maps, guidelines, and application materials are on the Historic Preservation page.
- Development Center, permits and plan review: 420 W. Main St., Oklahoma City. Phone: (405) 297-2525. Learn more on the Development Center page.
- Oklahoma State Historic Preservation Office: for tax credit coordination, National Register info, and federal review guidance. Visit okhistory.org/shpo for programs and contacts.
Ready to plan a smart, compliant update that protects your home’s character and your timeline? Reach out to schedule a focused consult with Mary Hatch The H. Group LLC for guidance on scope, sequencing, and presentation that adds value.
FAQs
Do I need approval to replace windows in Edgemere Park?
- If the windows are on a visible elevation, you will likely need a historic Certificate of Approval, and a permit may be required for the installation. Check the City’s guidelines and start with the Historic Preservation staff for project-specific direction.
How long does a Certificate of Approval take in Oklahoma City?
- Administrative reviews can take a few weeks; Commission reviews can take weeks to months depending on completeness and meeting timing, as outlined in the City’s Design Review Process.
Can my owner-occupied Edgemere Park home use historic tax credits?
- Typically no. The federal 20% rehabilitation tax credit applies to income-producing properties, not owner-occupied residences. State credits generally align with the federal rules.
What happens if my contractor starts without permits in Edgemere Park?
- The City can issue a stop-work order, assess fines, and require correction or removal of unapproved work. Confirm permits and approvals before work starts through Development Services.
Who should I contact first about a renovation in Edgemere Park?
- Start with a quick pre-check call or email to the City’s Historic Preservation staff to confirm what approvals you need, then coordinate building permits with the Development Center.
