HPRB Approval & Historic Building Permits in DC – Expert Expediting

Navigate the Historic Preservation Review Board with confidence. 25+ years of direct HPRB relationships. Principal-led service on every historic project.

Historic properties in DC are treasured—but permitting them shouldn't be a nightmare. The Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) protects our city's architectural heritage, but the approval process is complex, time-consuming, and unforgiving of mistakes.

One misstep in your submission can mean 6–12 months of delays. One overlooked design detail can trigger community opposition. One incomplete application can send you back to square one.

We've been doing this for 25 years. We know the HPRB board members, the staff reviewers, the community stakeholders, and the Secretary of Interior Standards inside and out. We don't just submit permits—we strategize approvals.

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Why Historic Permitting is Different (And Why Most Property Owners Get It Wrong)

Problem 1: HPRB Denials & Redesigns

The Problem: You submit a design. HPRB rejects it. You redesign. They reject it again. Six months later, you're still in review—and your project budget is bleeding.

Why It Happens: HPRB doesn't just check boxes. They evaluate architectural integrity, historical accuracy, and community impact. If your submission doesn't demonstrate deep understanding of the Secretary of Interior Standards, it will be flagged.

Our Solution: We conduct pre-submission strategy sessions with HPRB staff. We review your design against historical precedent and code. We identify potential objections before you submit. Result: First-submission approvals. Zero redesigns.

Problem 2: Community Opposition & Delays

The Problem: You didn't know the historic district community cares deeply about your project. Neighbors file objections. The hearing gets postponed. Your timeline explodes.

Why It Happens: Historic preservation isn't just regulatory—it's personal. Communities fight to protect their neighborhoods. Without early stakeholder engagement, you're blindsided.

Our Solution: We engage community stakeholders early. We present your project in a way that respects the neighborhood's values. We've navigated heated community hearings and turned opposition into support. Your project moves forward.

Problem 3: Code Compliance & Violations

The Problem: Your renovation meets modern building code but violates historic preservation standards. HPRB approves it. Then DOB finds violations. Now you're caught between two agencies with conflicting requirements.

Why It Happens: Historic buildings operate under dual compliance frameworks. You need expertise in both modern code and preservation standards to navigate this safely.

Our Solution: We coordinate across DOB, HPRB, and other agencies. We identify conflicts early. We find solutions that satisfy both preservation and safety. No violations. No surprises.

Our 4-Step Historic Permitting Process

  • We start before you design. We analyze your property's historic significance, review past HPRB decisions on similar projects, and develop a strategic approach. We identify what HPRB will care about—and what they won't.

    Deliverable: Pre-submission strategy memo + design guidelines

  • We work with your architect and contractors to ensure your design meets Secretary of Interior Standards and HPRB expectations. We prepare comprehensive documentation: historical research, design justification, technical drawings, and compliance narratives.

    Deliverable: Complete HPRB application package + submission strategy

  • We submit your application and coordinate with HPRB staff. If a public hearing is required, we prepare you for it. We brief you on likely questions, help you craft clear responses, and ensure you're ready to defend your project confidently.

    Deliverable: Approved application + hearing presentation (if needed)

  • HPRB approval is just the beginning. We ensure your construction stays true to the approved design. We coordinate inspections and address any compliance questions that arise during construction.

    Deliverable: Ongoing compliance oversight + final C of O support

Historic Permitting in Action: Georgetown Restaurant Streatery

Project Overview

A historic Georgetown restaurant wanted to add a permanent outdoor seating area (streatery) on the public right-of-way. The property was in a sensitive historic district with strict design guidelines and vocal community stakeholders.

The Challenge

  • HPRB required design approval for all outdoor elements (seating, planters, lighting, signage)

  • Community concerns about street activation and neighborhood character

  • Coordination required across HPRB, DDOT (right-of-way), and ANC

  • Timeline pressure: Restaurant wanted to open before peak season

Our Approach

  1. Pre-submission strategy: We met with HPRB staff to understand their design priorities and community concerns

  2. Design coordination: We worked with the restaurant's architect to develop a design that honored the historic context while creating a vibrant outdoor space

  3. Community engagement: We presented the project to the ANC and addressed neighborhood concerns directly

  4. Multi-agency coordination: We synchronized approvals across HPRB, DDOT, and permitting agencies

The Result

  • Permanent HPRB approval secured in 10 weeks

  • Zero community opposition

  • All agencies aligned

  • Restaurant opened on schedule

  • Continuous operation—no violations, no compliance issues

Why Choose M.C.G. for Historic Property Permitting

Principal-Led Expertise
Every historic project is personally led by Raushan Murshid, CEO and founder. With over 25 years of experience navigating the Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB), you're working directly with a seasoned expert—not a junior expediter.

Established HPRB Relationships
We maintain long-standing relationships with HPRB board members, staff reviewers, and neighborhood stakeholders. We understand their expectations and how to position your project for approval.

Deep Knowledge of Preservation Standards
We don’t just follow the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards—we apply them with intention. Our team balances preservation goals with practical solutions that respect your property's character and support modern use.

Seamless Multi-Agency Coordination
Historic projects often involve more than just HPRB. We coordinate across DOB, DDOT, DCRA, and other relevant agencies—resolving conflicts and aligning approvals to keep your project on track.

Clear, Flexible Pricing
We offer transparent pricing models to fit your needs: flat fees by project type, strategic consulting by the hour, or retainers for ongoing support. No hidden costs. No surprises.

Real Results, Real ROI
Our approach saves time, prevents costly redesigns, and protects your investment. From avoiding $50K+ in fines to opening six weeks ahead of schedule, our clients consistently see measurable results.

FAQs

What happens if HPRB denies my project?

You have options. You can redesign and resubmit. You can request a variance or exception. You can appeal the decision. We help you evaluate your options and develop a path forward. Most denials aren't final—they're starting points for negotiation.

Can you help with community engagement?

Absolutely. Community opposition is a major source of delays. We engage stakeholders early, present your project persuasively, and address concerns proactively. We've turned community opposition into support.

How long does HPRB approval typically take?

Most projects. Simple modifications may take 4–6 weeks. Complex projects involving community hearings may take 12–20 weeks. Our pre-submission strategy often accelerates timelines by identifying issues early and avoiding redesigns.

What triggers HPRB review in DC?

HPRB reviews any exterior work on historic properties, including: facade modifications, window replacements, roof work, signage, landscaping changes, additions, and interior work visible from the street. If you're unsure whether your project requires HPRB approval, we can assess it in a free consultation.

Can I renovate a historic building without HPRB approval?

Not if your property is in a historic district or is individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places. HPRB approval is required for most exterior work. Interior work is generally exempt unless it's visible from the street or affects the building's historic character.

What are the Secretary of Interior Standards?

The Secretary of Interior Standards are federal guidelines for historic preservation. They establish best practices for maintaining, repairing, and upgrading historic properties while preserving their character. HPRB uses these standards to evaluate projects. Understanding them is critical to getting approval.

Ready to Navigate HPRB with Confidence?

Schedule your free historic permit consultation today.

We'll assess your property, review your project scope, and outline a clear path to HPRB approval. No obligation. No pressure. Just expert guidance.

Call us: (202) 729-8272

Email: sayhello@mcgpermits.com