Certificate of Design Consistency Checklist 7.20.21
Development Services
401 N. Elm St., Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-8541
Updated 7/23/21 Certificate of Design Consistency Checklist 1
Certificate of Design Consistency Checklist
Identification of Contributing Building Status:
Please identify your property on the map below and check the appropriate box based on whether
or not your property is a “Contributing Property” (dark gray) to the Denton County Courthouse
Square National Register District:
☐ Yes, property is a Contributing Property ☐ No, property is not a Contributing Property
Development Services
401 N. Elm St., Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-8541
Updated 7/23/21 Certificate of Design Consistency Checklist 2
Certificate of Design Consistency submittal requirements, criteria for decision, determination,
deadline, and review procedure follow the regulations outlined in Denton Development Code
Section 2.10.
Type of Project Determination:
Per Section ___ of the DDC, the Planning Director will make a determination as to the type of
review required for a Certificate of Design Consistency project application, including making a
final determination as to the type of project that is being proposed. Applicant is asked to mark
the box for the type of project they intend to propose, based on the definitions of types of
projects provided below. Options are as follows:
☐ Ordinary Maintenance:
Stabilizing deteriorated or damaged architectural features (including but not limited to
roofing, windows, columns, and siding). Includes any work that does not constitute a
change in design, material, or outward appearance, and include in-kind replacement or
repair
☐ Minor Exterior Alteration:
Installation of or alteration to awnings, fences, gutters and downspouts; lighting fixtures;
and restoration of original architectural features that constitute a change from existing
conditions.
☐ Major Alteration:
Redevelopment, reconstruction, alteration, change, or restoration of the exterior of a
building that exceeds the definition of “ordinary maintenance or minor alteration,”
construction of a new building or an addition to an existing building, demolition of an
existing building or façade, or construction or reconstruction of a parking lot.
☐ Mural:
Installation of a new mural
Development Services
401 N. Elm St., Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-8541
Updated 7/23/21 Certificate of Design Consistency Checklist 3
☐ **Labeling Your Submittals – Follow with All Documents Submitted
Project Number – [First/Second/Third] Submittal [Document Title]
o Examples:
DCC21-0001 – First Submittal Narrative
DCC21-0001 – First Submittal DCC Checklist
DCC21-0001 – Second Submittal Current Image1
DCC21-0001 – First Submittal Building Elevations2
**Your submittal will be deemed incomplete if your files are not properly labeled.
Items required for all projects:
The following items must be submitted to be considered complete.
☐ 0.1 Owner Authorization Form (notarized) – Download here
☐ 1.1 Project Description providing sufficient detail to explain the purpose and scope
of the project. Should include explanation of why project meets the definition of
the project type marked by applicant above.
☐ 1.1.1 If building materials not listed in the Standards are proposed, provide
justification for why such material(s) meet the intent of the applicable
section.
☐ 1.1.2 If a deviation from the Standards is proposed, address how this
deviation complies with the Purpose and Overall Intent of the Denton
Square District. Additional information may be required depending on
the type of project proposed (see below sections)
☐ 1.2 Location Map showing the location of the property proposed for development in
relation to existing streets and adjoining properties.
☐ 1.3 Current Image(s) of entire building proposed to be altered or repaired, showing
all facades affected by proposed Modification, and showing adjacent buildings to
provide context. May necessitate multiple images.
☐ 1.4 National Register District Map (see copy attached) with location of proposed
project marked with a box, in order to establish whether the property is a
contributing property to the Denton Courthouse Square National Register District.
☐ 1.5 All documents are required to be PDF files, each sheet will be a single item and
will be uploaded into ProjectDox.
Development Services
401 N. Elm St., Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-8541
Updated 7/23/21 Certificate of Design Consistency Checklist 4
Additional items required by project type:
The following items must be submitted for each project type to be considered complete.
Ordinary Maintenance Projects:
☐ 2.1 Current image(s) specifically of existing building element(s) proposed to be
repaired or replaced in-kind, clearly showing the current condition of such building
elements.
☐ 2.2 Accurate graphic depiction of proposed maintenance. Should identify existing and
proposed building materials and show enough of the affected building to clarify the
impact of the proposed maintenance. Staff may direct applicant to depict a greater
extent of the building if initial submittal is determined to be inadequate.
☐ 2.3 Samples or product descriptions and images of proposed repair or replacement
materials.
☐ 2.4 Project Description should include brief explanation of why maintenance is
necessary.
Minor Exterior Alteration Projects:
☐ 3.1 Current image(s) specifically of the existing building element(s) or area of building
proposed to be altered
☐ 3.2 Accurate graphic depiction(s) of proposed minor alteration. Should depict
appearance of property as it currently exists, as well as appearance with proposed
alteration(s) included. Depiction(s) must show the proposed work in relation to the
structure proposed to be altered. Materials existing and proposed should be
identified. Staff may direct applicant to depict a greater extent of the building, or to
include additional details, if necessary to capture effect of proposed alteration.
☐ 3.3 If new light fixture(s) are proposed which do not comply with DDC Section 6.11,
but which are permitted in the Square District per Section 4.10.7.F, include
depiction and manufacturer specification sheet for proposed light fixture(s).
Major Exterior Alteration Projects:
☐ 4.1 Current image(s) of existing building element(s) or area of the building proposed
to be altered. Provide multiple images, if necessary, to show close-ups of building
elements or area(s) to be altered.
☐ 4.2 Building Elevation(s), to scale, showing proposed alteration, with dimensions and
materials labeled
Development Services
401 N. Elm St., Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-8541
Updated 7/23/21 Certificate of Design Consistency Checklist 5
☐ 4.3 Accurate graphic depiction(s) to scale of proposed major alteration. Should depict
appearance of property as it exists today, as well as appearance with proposed
alteration(s) included. Depiction(s) must show the proposed work in relation to the
structure proposed to be altered. Materials existing and proposed should be
identified. Staff may direct applicant to depict a greater extent of the building, or to
include additional details, if necessary to capture effect of proposed alteration.
☐ 4.4 Project Description should include explanation of the purpose of the major
alteration and how the proposed alteration will comply with applicable Denton
Square District Standards.
☐ 4.5 If new light fixture(s) are proposed which do not meet the standards of the DDC
Section 6.11, but which are permitted within the Denton Square District per Section
4.10.7.F, include depiction and manufacturer specification sheet for proposed light
fixture(s).
Major Exterior Alteration- Façade/ Building Demolition
☐ 5.1 Documentation to establish that demolition will not damage adjacent buildings.
☐ 5.2 Post-Demolition Reconstruction Plan, including the following elements:
Complete architectural drawings, to scale, of proposed replacement building or
façade, or, in cases where an underlying façade will be the replacement façade, a
rendering of the expected appearance of the underlying façade, including any
restoration work.
☐ 5.2.1 (If applicable) Site Plan for proposed replacement structure (see
“New Building Construction”)
☐ 5.2.2 Guarantee agreement between the owner and the city that
demonstrates the owner’s intent and financial ability to carry out the
reconstruction plan. Agreement must include:
☐ 5.2.2 a Covenant to construct proposed structure by a specific date
in accordance with the architectural drawings approved by
the city through the CDC process
☐ 5.2.2 b Performance or payment bond, letter of credit, escrow
agreement, cash deposit, or other arrangement approved by
the Planning Director, to ensure construction of the proposed
replacement structure
☐ 5.2.2 c Approval of agreement as to form by Denton City Attorney
Development Services
401 N. Elm St., Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-8541
Updated 7/23/21 Certificate of Design Consistency Checklist 6
☐ 5.3 Project Narrative should specifically explain how the proposed demolition will
not detract from the historic character of the Square or from the property value of
adjacent buildings
Mural Projects:
☐ 6.1 Photograph, painting, or digital image depicting proposed mural. Should be
substantially similar to what is put in place, with only minor, non-substantive
modifications in final product. Should depict mural on subject building and show
adjoining buildings on each side to provide context.
☐ 6.2 Facade elevation showing size and location of mural on proposed building.
☐ 6.3 Project Description for murals should:
☐ 6.3.1 Identify the type of façade material to which the mural will be
applied
☐ 6.3.2 Address the requirements that murals in the Denton Square District
must:
Be compatible with the architectural and aesthetic components of
the building or other structure on which it is installed, and
Not detract from the character of the District, and not be detrimental
to the public health, safety, and welfare.
☐ 6.4 If mural on separate panel is proposed, provide labeled depiction of how panel will
be mounted on the wall
☐ 6.5 If murals will be on a facade facing the Square Proper, provide façade elevation,
to scale and labeled with the area in square feet of façade on which mural will be
installed and the percentage of the facade area to be covered by the proposed
mural
New Building Construction Projects
☐ 7.1 Depiction of expected appearance of proposed building upon completion, including
detailed depictions of adjoining buildings to provide context.
☐ 7.2 Site Plan for proposed new structure, drawn to scale, including full elevations for
all facades visible from public right-of-way, with proposed materials depicted and
labeled. If applicable, provide additional sheets to depict screening of building
equipment and waste dumpsters, with materials and colors labeled.
☐ 7.3 Temporary Construction Fencing plan, including depiction of the location, height,
Development Services
401 N. Elm St., Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-8541
Updated 7/23/21 Certificate of Design Consistency Checklist 7
and material of the proposed fencing, as well as any decorative elements. Fencing
must meet the standards of DDC Section 35.25.4.10.7.L.3.
☐ 7.4 Project Narrative should specifically discuss how the new building will maintain or
enhance the historic character of the Square.
☐ 7.5 (If applicable) Documentation to establish that new building can be attached to
adjoining building(s) without causing damage. Any and all necessary legal
documentation necessary to create such attachment.
“Contributing Properties” Projects- As identified in the National Register District
☐ 8.1 Project Narrative for any project proposed for a Contributing Property should
specifically address why any proposed removal, replacement, or repair of historic
materials, architectural features, facades, or building, or any proposed exterior
addition to an existing Contributing Property building will not detract from the
historic value of the building or from the historic character of the Denton Square
District.
☐ 8.2 Physical or documentary evidence to establish that any proposed new window
openings in an existing facade are similar in number, style, and placement to
window openings which existed in the Denton Courthouse National Register
District during the Period of Significance, per 2019 DDC Section 4.10.7.K..4.a.
☐ 8.3 For proposed demolition of a building or façade on a Contributing property, Post-
Demolition Reconstruction Plan should include the additional required documents
for one (1) of the Demolition Options below:
☐ 8.3.1 Demolition Option A: If proposing to replace existing historic
structure/façade with one more compatible with the historic
character of the Square, provide the following documentation
☐ 8.3.1 a Records depicting the original construction of the structure
or its appearance and condition during the Period of
Significance of the National Register District (Period of
Significance: 1882-1949), including drawings, pictures, or
written descriptions.
☐ 8.3.1 b Records depicting the current condition of the structure,
including drawings, pictures, or written descriptions.
Development Services
401 N. Elm St., Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-8541
Updated 7/23/21 Certificate of Design Consistency Checklist 8
☐ 8.3.1 c Any conditions proposed to be placed voluntarily on the new
structure that would mitigate the loss of the existing building
or facade.
☐ 8.3.1 d Any additional documentation determined by the Director to
be necessary to establish the compatibility of the proposed
replacement.
☐ 8.3.2 Demolition Option B (façade only): If proposing to remove a façade
which did not exist during the Period of Significance for the
National Register District (Period of Significance: 1882-1949), in
order to reveal an older façade underneath, which was in existence
during the Period of Significance, provide the following
documentation.
☐ 8.3.2 a Physical or documentary evidence of existing underlying
façade beneath the façade which is proposed for demolition.
☐ 8.3.3 Demolition Option C: If proposing to remove an existing historic
building/façade because an unreasonable economic hardship exists
if applicant is required to maintain the current building or façade,
provide the following documents to establish proof of hardship:
☐ 8.3.3 a The original purchase price of the Contributing Building;
☐ 8.3.3 b The name and legal status (e.g., partnership, corporation) of
the owner(s);
☐ 8.3.3 c A signed building assessment report from a licensed
engineer or contractor, as to the structural soundness of
either the Contributing Building and/or façade of the
Contributing Building, including a cost estimate for repairs;
☐ 8.3.3 d A cost estimate for demolition of the Contributing Building
or façade of a Contributing Building;
☐ 8.3.3 e The past and current use of the Contributing Building;
☐ 8.3.3 f The assessed value of the property containing the
Contributing Building, according to the two most recent tax
assessments;
☐ 8.3.3 g The amount of real estate taxes on the property containing
the Contributing Building for the previous two years;
☐ 8.3.3 h The date of purchase or other acquisition of the property
containing the Contributing Building;
Development Services
401 N. Elm St., Denton, TX 76201 (940) 349-8541
Updated 7/23/21 Certificate of Design Consistency Checklist 9
☐ 8.3.3 i Principal balance and interest rate on the current mortgage
and the annual debt service on the property containing the
Contributing Building, if any, for the previous two years;
☐ 8.3.3 j All appraisals obtained by the owner or applicant within the
previous two years in connection with the owner's purchase,
financing or ownership of the property containing the
Contributing Building;
☐ 8.3.3 k Any listing of the property containing the Contributing
Building for sale or rent, asking price, and offers received
☐ 8.3.3 l Any consideration given by the owner to profitable adaptive
uses for the Contributing Building or, in cases when only the
removal of the façade is proposed, for profitable adaptive
uses that do not require removal of the façade
☐ 8.3.3 m Proof that the owner's affirmative obligations to maintain the
property containing the Contributing Building make it
impossible for the owner to realize a reasonable rate of return
on that property.
☐ 8.3.3 n Additional requirements for an income producing historic
property:
☐ 8.3.3 o Annual gross income from the property from the previous
two years;
☐ 8.3.3 p Itemized operating and maintenance expenses from the
previous two years; and
☐ 8.3.3 q Annual cash flow, if any, from the previous two years.
Note: Claims of unreasonable economic hardship by the historic property owner must not be based
on conditions resulting from the following:
Evidence of demolition by neglect or other willful and negligent acts by the owner;
Purchasing the property for substantially more than market value at the time of purchase;
Failure to take into account historic properties in the planning and design stage of
development or proposed development;
Failure to perform normal maintenance and repairs;
Failure to diligently solicit and retain tenants; or
Failure to provide normal tenant improvements.