Our Mission
Why Local Preservation?
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The buildings and landscapes that grace our everyday lives tell us who we are, where we have been and where we are going. It is our cultural heritage.
Local preservation fosters pride and a spirit of community.
Local preservation connects us with the past and the history that makes each community unique.
Local preservation attracts tourists and creates the economic anchor for the revitalization of our downtown and residential districts.
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The Orange Historic Preservation Commission (HPC)
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The Orange Historic Preservation Commission (HPC} was created in 2014 by municipal ordinance to promote historic preservation in Orange, to advise the Planning Board and Zoning Board on applications for development within Orange's historic districts and sites, and to review building permit applications for proposed repairs, additions, alterations, new construction, demolition and relocation. Comprised of seven volunteer citizen members appointed by the Mayor, HPC members have expertise in architectural design, construction, and local history. The HPC reviews all work that will change the exterior appearance of designated historic properties, including principal buildings, garages, carriage houses, gazebos, and other auxiliary buildings, fences, walls, driveways, sidewalks, signs, and parking lots. The HPC issues Certificates of Appropriateness if it finds that the work proposed is appropriate to the historic district and conforms to the Design Guidelines. The Commission strives to assist applicants with their projects. Applicants are encouraged to schedule an informational meeting with the HPC prior to submitting an application, particularly if the project is a large addition or new construction.
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What is the HPC's Purpose?
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​The HPC is responsible for the preservation, protection, and development of the town's historical or archaeological assets and for historic preservation planning for Orange.
The HPC conducts research on places of historic value, cooperates with the State archaeologist in conducting such research or other surveys, and coordinates the activities of other bodies organized for preservation purposes. The HPC may make such recommendations as it deems necessary to the Planning Board or City Council that any such property, site, structure, or district be locally landmarked as historically significant. The HPC is also responsible for public outreach, education, and advocacy concerning Orange's historic resources.
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Orange Historic Preservation Commission's Duties
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​The City of Orange Township Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) is composed of Orange residents who are knowledgeable in building design and construction and/or architectural history, residents who have a demonstrated interest in or knowledge of Orange history, as well as others interested in the history and preservation of Orange. The responsibilities of the HPC are stated fully in Art. X of Chapter 210 (Development Regulations), section 210-77 through 119. You may obtain a copy of this ordinance from the City Clerk, or on the City of Orange website, www.orange.nj.us.
The HPC promotes preservation, prepares reports to the Planning Board on applications for development on properties located in historic districts, and hears and decides applications for permits called Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) for changes to the exterior of, or demolition of, properties in historic districts.