What Historic Property Owners Need to Know About Permits and Preservation
Historic Property Guidelines & Resources
Welcome to the Historic Property Guidelines & Resources page, created to support property owners in preserving the rich character of Crowsnest Pass. This page provides essential information for owners of properties within historic areas, including development guidelines, permit requirements, and helpful resources to assist you in maintaining your property.
Why Historic Preservation Matters
Historic properties contribute to the unique identity and heritage of Crowsnest Pass. By preserving these buildings, we honor our community’s past, support local tourism, and promote economic vitality. Whether you’re planning renovations, repairs, or new construction, it’s essential to follow guidelines that protect the historical significance of these areas.
Properties Covered in These Guidelines
These guidelines apply to properties in historic areas or with official designations, including:
- Historic Commercial Areas Overlay District (HCA-OD): Main streets and downtown areas of Bellevue, Blairmore, and Coleman.
- Provincially Designated Historic Resources: Buildings designated at the provincial level for their historical value.
- Municipally Designated Historic Resources: Properties officially designated by municipal bylaw.
- Heritage Management Plan Inventories: Properties included in the Heritage Inventory for their cultural or architectural significance.
- Coleman National Historic Site: Properties within this federally recognized historic district.
To confirm the specific designation of your property, contact our development office at development@crowsnestpass.com.
Key Regulations for Historic Properties
Understanding which activities require a permit and which are exempt can help streamline your projects while ensuring compliance with preservation standards.
1. Development Permit Exemptions
- Interior Maintenance & Minor Renovations: Most interior changes are exempt from permit requirements, as long as they don’t alter the building’s structure, use, or significant features. However, if the work impacts character-defining features in the HCA-OD, a permit may be necessary.
- Signage Updates: A permit is required for new signs or sign structures. However, updating the text or images on an existing sign typically does not require a permit unless it alters historical features.
- Small Structure Demolition: Structures under 500 sq. ft. may generally be demolished without a permit, though some may require Safety Codes Act approval.
- Outdoor Improvements: Additions like driveways, ground-level patios, or fences are often exempt if they don’t alter drainage. In the HCA-OD, any changes to key exterior elements may still need review.
2. Permit Review Process
For significant changes (such as façade renovations, major repairs, or new construction), your application will be reviewed by the Historic Resources Advisory Committee to ensure it aligns with local preservation goals.
3. Protection of Historic Features
Properties listed in heritage inventories or with municipal or provincial designations may have specific preservation conditions. In some cases, alterations may be refused to protect significant features, or conditions may be applied to preserve these elements.
4. Agency Approvals
Properties designated as Provincial Historic Resources or within the Coleman National Historic Site may require additional approval from provincial or federal agencies.
Design Guidelines for Historic Areas
To help maintain the historic look and feel of our community, any work in the HCA-OD or on designated properties should respect traditional design elements. This includes:
- Following the architectural styles and materials common to historic main streets.
- Aligning with the Design Guidelines for the Crowsnest Pass Historic District, which provide recommendations on appropriate materials, façade treatments, and landscaping.
For more details, please contact our office at 403-562-8833 or review the Design Guidelines for the Crowsnest Pass Historic District document.
Additional Resources & Support
We’re here to support you throughout your project. Here are some helpful resources for property owners:
- Municipal Development Department: If you are unsure if these situations apply to you, feel free to book an appointment with the development team through reception at 403-562-8833.
- Historic Commercial Areas Overlay District (HCA-OD): If your business is within the Historic Commercial Area Overlay District (HCA-OD) in Bellevue, Blairmore or Coleman, please refer to the Land Use Bylaw Schedule to see additional information on development standards in that area.
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Municipal Heritage Resource Designation Process
Find more information on how to designate your property as a municipal heritage resource here. -
Funding and Grants
Financial assistance may be available for preservation efforts. To learn more about grants and funding programs, visit:- The Heritage Preservation Partnership Program provides matching grants and scholarship funds to support initiatives that preserve and interpret Alberta's heritage.
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Crowsnest Heritage Initiatives
The Crowsnest Heritage Initiative is a community group interested in preserving and promoting heritage in the Crowsnest Pass, Alberta. - Heritage Management Plan Inventories
The Heritage Management Plan encourages the municipality to incorporate various policies and procedures to help continue the process of identifying, conserving and protecting local heritage resources.
View more information on the Heritage Inventory Project here.
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Canada’s Historic Places
Canada’s Historic Places website provides additional resources, including the Standards and Guidelines for the Conservation of Historic Places in Canada, a valuable reference for property owners.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or would like to confirm your property’s designation or have questions about additional permitting requirements, please reach out to our development office. We’re here to provide guidance, answer your questions, and help you with the necessary permits or approvals.
Contact Information:
- Phone: 403-562-8833
- Email: development@crowsnestpass.com