Certain proposals for construction, exterior alterations, building demolitions or signs in the City of Cleveland must undergo a process known as "design review." The City established this process as a policy to ensure that any visual changes to buildings or open spaces will enhance the architectural character of the Downtown or other special planning areas in the City, such as Urban Renewal Plan areas, Community Development Plan areas, Neighborhood Commercial Districts and the Public Land Protective District.
	How do I determine if my project will require Design Review? Projects calling for new construction, demolition, exterior renovation, landscaping, fencing, new signs, awnings, and other changes which of course, do change the appearance of the property - even to a slight degree - are reviewed if they are located in a Design Review District. Which Commitee will review my project? Your project will be reviewed by the Citywide Design Review Committe if: The property lies within the "Public Land Protective District" which covers most of the Downtown area. (click here for a map) or The property lies within an urban Renewal Area or Community Development Plan Area or The property is publicly owned anywhere in the City, wether by a City, County, State, Federal, or special district agency or The sponsor is applying for or receiving any level of government financial assistance (City, County, State or Federal) including grants, loans, tax breaks, or other incentives Your project will be reviewed by a Businesss Revitalization District Committee if it lies within the boundaries of one of the neighborhood commercial districts listed below: Flats Oxbow Midtown Broadway Corridor Kamm's Corners E. 185th Street Waterloo East St. Clair West 117th Street/Lorain Ave. Larchmere Boulevard Buckeye Road Old Brooklyn Glenville Lee/Harvad If you have any questions please feel free to contact the Cleveland City Planning Commission staff. Telephone: 216-664-2210   Fax: 216-664-3281   Address: 601 Lakeside Ave. Rm 501   Cleveland, OH 44114