The Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) is a nine member board appointed by the City Council to "promote, enhance and preserve the character of the Wilmington historic districts". The HPC hears and decides requests for Certificates of Appropriateness in accordance with the adopted Wilmington Design Guidelines for Historic Districts and Landmarks.

 

Design review by the HPC is required for exterior alterations to properties located within the city's historic districts in order to ensure compatibility with the historic character of the district. The Design Guidelines do not impose a particular architectural style, but encourage eompatible design, whether traditional or contemporary.