The Village of Lake Bluff's Historic Preservation Commission reviews qualifying demolitions of buildings that are over 50 years old in order to evaluate, prior to demolition, if the building satisfies the criteria to be designated as a historic landmark. A demolition permit will not be issued until any applicable review requirements are completed.
In order to begin the Commission's review, the Property's Owner must complete the following form in its entirety. The Owner is the person identified as having a fee interest in the Subject Property as evidenced by the name that appears on the title records in the office of the Lake County Recorder. Someone that only has a contractual interest in the property (e.g. a contract to purchase) may not file this form. An Owner's attorney, architect, builder, or contractor may file this application and represent the Owner with the Owner's written authorization.
This form asks questions about the property, the proposed demolition, and future plans following demolition. It may take time to complete this form in its entirety. At any time, you can select "Save" at the bottom of the form in order to save your progress and return to it at a different time. Any saved drafts and submission receipts will be e-mailed to the applicant's e-mail address (shown at the bottom of the form).
After receipt of a completed demolition letter of intent:
- A sign will be posted on the street adjacent to the Subject Property. This sign must remain in place for the duration of the review and must not be removed or tampered with.
- The Commission has 90 days from the date of receipt to conduct its review. The applicant will be given reasonable notice of any meetings where the Commission will consider the application.
- At any meeting, the Commission may end its review or allow the review period to elapse without further consideration. The Village Board of Trustees may also extend the review period for up to 30 days.
- If a landmark nomination is received during the demolition review period, other historic preservation reviews apply. A demolition permit will not be issued until any applicable review requirements are completed.
For more information on the demolition review process and the Village's Historic Preservation regulations, contact Lake Bluff Village Hall at (847) 234-0774.