It is the intent and purpose of this article to preserve those buildings and sites of historic and architectural significance throughout the Township.
A. 
Historic buildings and sites are defined as:
(1) 
Associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history.
(2) 
Associated with the lives of persons significant in our past.
(3) 
Having distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction or representing the work of a master builder or possessing high artistic value or representing a significant and distinguishable entity.
(4) 
Having yielded or may be likely to yield information important in prehistory or history.
B. 
These historic buildings and sites are listed in the Andover Township Master Plan, 1976, pages 77 to 79, and are shown on Plate XIV Historic Site, page 76. In order to effectuate these goals and objectives, an Historic Preservation Commission or, until such Commission is established, the Planning Board shall act to review site plans and building permits relative to historic sites and buildings.
A. 
Structural changes. No historic buildings or sites shall be altered, renovated, modified or otherwise changed without obtaining a building permit.
B. 
Building permits. A building permit shall only be issued after review by the Historic Preservation Commission or Planning Board. The Commission or Planning Board shall be guided in its review by the following criteria:
(1) 
Preservation of architectural integrity.
(2) 
Preservation of building materials and construction techniques.
C. 
Maintenance. No historic building or site shall be demolished or permitted to become dilapidated through lack of maintenance.
D. 
Adaptive use. Adaptive use of historic sites and buildings is permitted, consistent with uses permitted in the zone district.
The applicant shall submit to the Building Inspector plans and specifications of the proposal according to the following guidelines:
A. 
Where a simple alteration is proposed, a sketch of all structural changes and of the property showing lot size, surrounding streets and lot and block number. The Historic Preservation Commission or, in its absence, the Planning Board shall review the material and consider recommendations by the Township Building Official and others as needed.
B. 
Where a major alteration is proposed, an architectural drawing prepared, signed and sealed by a licensed architect shall be submitted. In addition, a site plan may be required if a structure is to be added to the site or there is a change of use. The site plan shall be submitted in accordance with Chapter 131, Site Plan Review. The Historic Preservation Commission or, in its absence, the Planning Board shall review the material and consider recommendations by the Township Building Office and others as needed.
C. 
The review board may waive sections of Chapter 131, Site Plan Review, if not necessary to the review process.
D. 
The applicant is encouraged to informally discuss the proposal with the Township reviewing board to explain the proposal and to be apprised of submission requirements.