[Added 10-7-2025 by Ord. No. 25-3356]
A.
The Planning Board and Zoning Board of Adjustment may refer to the Commission every application for development or zone change request involving a designated historic district, site or landmark. These boards may make referral to the HPC when the applicant files a complete application for development with the administrative officer. Failure to refer the application as required shall not invalidate any hearing or proceeding. The Commission may provide its advice, which shall be conveyed through its delegation of one of its members or staff to testify orally at the respective board hearing on the application and to explain any written report which may have been submitted.
B.
The Zoning Office shall refer to the Commission a Historic Site Verification for the improvement, removal, alteration, demolition or partial demolition of an exterior component of any designated historic building, structure or landmark, and any building or structure located within an historic district.
C.
The Building Department shall not issue any demolition permit for the demolition or partial demolition, as defined herein, of a historic structure unless the Historic Preservation Commission has provided a complete, reviewed, and signed, written recommendation via the Historic Site Verification.
D.
For all matters referred to the HPC for Historic Site Verification, the HPC shall render a determination as to whether the request for verification warrants HPC review within seven days and, if applicable, provide its findings and a written recommendation to the applicant within 30 days. Failure to comply within these established time frames shall deem the corresponding Historic Site Verification complete.
E.
Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment, and HPC reviews involving historic buildings, structures and landmarks shall consider the design requirements of Chapter 35, Development Regulations, the 2004 Design and Preservation Guidelines for Historic Properties in the City of Summit, New Jersey, or any successor thereto, and the United States Secretary of the Interior's Rehabilitation Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
F.
For all matters referred to the Commission which require approval by the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Adjustment, Building Department, or other City entity, the Commission's findings and recommendations shall be advisory.