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An Overview
HISTORIC PRESERVATION IN
SAINT AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA
AE 621
University of Florida
Department of Architecture
Historic Preservation Option
David E. Ferro
Itrch 18, 1.970
INTRODUCTION
This study is intended as an overview of the various mechanisms,
legal and functional, whicn affect the St. Augustine, Florida
historic preservation program. It will briefly describe the program's
history, objectives, its current structure, and its accomplishments.
ORGANIZATIONS AND THEIR HISTORIES
1883- The forerunner of the present St. Augustine Historical Society
was formed, with its primary function to preserve and interpret the
history of St. Augustine and its environs. Originally the organization's
focal interest was in the archaeology and natural history of the region.
The Societyi
a. maintains an extensive Florida and St. AugusLine research
library, and operates two museums.
b. administered Castillo de San ;Marcos (Fort Marion) for twenty
years prior to the National Park Service's take-over in 1.935.
c. purchased its controversial "oldest house" in 1916 and fabric-
ated a Spanish Colonial home from it. The Society has also
restored five other historic houses,-and administers several
historic sites.
d. disseminates historical information.
In its preservation activities, the self- sustaining Society has
acquired and restored only those historical buildings which appear to
be in danger of destruction or misuse. The Society prefers to co-
operate with the efforts of others in the field of preservation and
restoration. Restored buildings owned by the Society are leased for
appropriate business or residential use. See Appendix A for ownership
of historically significant structures in St. Augustine.
Currently the Society's activities are passive in their preservation
involvement.
1937- The St. Augustine Historic Preservation and Restoration Assoc-
iation was created and funded by the Carnegie Institute. Prior to
World War II, the Institute carried out an extensive program of research
into St. Augustine's early history. Much of this work has been lost.
1959- The Historic St. Augustine Preservation Board (originally the St.
Augustine Historic Restoration and Preservation Commission) was created
by state statute. Action for state developmental assistance was
initiated when local organizations, .recognizing the social and economic
value of their historical surroundings, and the necessity of its pre-
servation and restoration, also recognized their own inability to man-
age and finance such an undertaking. The Board was established as a
state funded developmental mechanism which would not only be actively
involved in the planning, coordination and accomplishment of the pre-
servation program, but would also serve as the liaison between city,
county and state governments, encouraging proper zoning, ordinances
and standards in accordance with its established preservation goals.
This board and the other four similar organizations that followed it
were created by popular vote and have only been held accountable for
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such powers and responsibilities as they were willing to impose upon
themselves. There have been no mandated responsibilities imposed upon
them by the state. A state level program review board is being proposed
as a result of recent setbacks in the Key West program, to insure that
the creation of new boards is justified and that the cities involved
are willing to meet specific commitments to be mandated by the state.
ORIGINAL MASTER PLAN EARLY 1 960s
Charged with the responsibility of acquiring, restoring, and preserving
St. Augustine's historical landmarks, the Preservation Board called for
the development of a master plan for the proposed restoration program.
The general master plan of the early 1960s encompassed the walled area
of the 1.721 city and declared it a forty block historical area. The
business district was envisioned as being relocated outside the area to
the west. The plan proved to be over-ambitious, financially and log-
istically. Financial limitations have precluded the preparation of a
new plan, although a series of guidelines have been established as a
framework for future developments
a. An eight block primary icstoration area has been established
adjacent to Castillo de San MErcos. See map in Appendix B.
b. Restoration is to depict the growth and change (a cross section)
of St. Augustine's first 250 years.
c. The restoration area should be entertaining as well as authentic,
realistic and educational.
d. iA generally prevailing "Spanish atmosphere" should characterize
the whole historic area.
e. A goal of financially self-sustaining development has been estab-
lished.
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The Board is currently involved in the reconstruction of two Colonial
period buildings, and its developmental emphasis has been on the cre-
ation of a concentrated central restoration area which serves as the
core of the programs educational and interpretive activity, surrounded
by a "low key" interpretation area in a "living outdoor museum."
OUTLINE OF THE 1.959 STATE LEGISLATION
Chapter 266, Florida Statutes (See Appendix C).
This statute has served as the prototype for all Florida Historic
Commissions which have followed it, to date.
a. A corporate, seven member board of trustees was created within
the Department of State. Members are are appointed by the Gov-
ernor, and are uncompensated. Two of the members need not be
residents of the state (hopefully they will be persons of nat-
ional financial influence i.e., a Rockafeller or Vanderbilt).
b. The State Treasurer acts as ex officio treasurer, with custidy
of all state funds.
c. Among the more important powers granted the Board, for its auth-
orized purpose arei
i. the power to acquire real or personal property or interest
therein by any legal means it deems necessary, including ease-
ments, condemnation, and real property franchises; and to
operate, maintain and dispose of such property.
ii. the power to demolish and remove "slum" structures within its
jurisdiction, replacing them with public facilities or low
rent housing.
iii. the power to plan buildings and improvements, employ profess-
ional consultants, and construct, alter and repair such improve-
ments.
iv. the power to acquire city, county, state and federal properties
or serve as trustee for such properties a- tney are suitable
for use by tne Boara.
v. tne power to freely contract, in its best interest, ana engage
in any lawful activity or Dusiness to further its purposes.
vi. the power to borrow money for preservation, restoration, and
reconstruction projects, as well as to issue negotiable revenue
certificates.
The Board currently exercises its powers, duties and functions subject
to the budgetary review and approval of the Secretary of State and,
although the board is not a division in the state government, it func-
tions administratively under the Secretary of State.
Important considerations which were not included in this original leg-
islation include:
a. specific criteria for the historical evaluation of properties
and a selection mechanism for significant buildings to be pre-
served.
b. provision for an architectural review board for the regulation
of construction, reconstruction and demolition of private prop-
erty within and adjacent to the historic area.
c. protection against the purposeful neglect of private properties
of historic or architectural significance.
Some of these considerations have been included in more recent legis-
lation of this type.
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The powers which enable the control of individual properties and their
development still remain in the hands of the city and county govern-
ments i.e., zoning and architectural review. In these areas the Pre-
servation Board functions only as an adviser. The Board offers an un-
official design appropriateness review and basic technical assistance
to individuals contemplating development or redevelopment in the his-
toric area.
The actual review mechanism for construction, reconstruction and dem-
olition in the historical district is established by the St. August-
ine Building Code. At the present time, a comprehensive zoning ordin-
ance for the city is being written, with emphasis on preservation con-
siderations.
ST. AUGUSTINE BUILDING CODE (See Appendix D)
The St. Augustine Building Codes
a. defines St. Augustine architecture, as it is documented in
Albert Phnucy's book The Houses of St. Augustine, an extremely
thorough study of the city's colonial architecture.
b. establishes a five member Historic Preservation Committee, with
the members being appointed by the city commission. Three ex
officio advisors includes
i. the Director of the St. Augustine Preservation Board.
ii. the President of St. Augustine Restoration, Inc.
iii. the President of the St. Augustine Historical Society.
The Committees
a. serves as an adjustment committee on matters related to con-
struction, reconstruction, demolition and erection in the city's
five historic districts.
b. is charged with the review of all applications for building
and demolition permits, and certificates of occupancy in and
adjacent to the historic districts, including buildings, struc-
tures and appurtenances. This review authority involves only
exterior architectural features. A public hearing is provided
concerning each application. Tf the proposed project is deemed
architecturally appropriate, a certificate of appropriateness
will be issued. If the certificate is denied, the reasons for
denial as well as recommendations to help the applicant revise
his plans are provided. A means of appeal is provided by the
city commission, with further appeals being heard by the Circuit
Court of St. Johns County.
c. is to be given ninety days notice in the case of demolition,
anywhere within the city limits of St. Augustine. If the build-
ing to be demolished is deemed to be of significance, the Com-
mittee will make every attempt to find a means of preserving
it. At the end of ninety days, there is no further control over
the buildings demolition.
d. establishes and defines the city's five historical districts,
and enumerates the permitted uses in each district.
1962- St. Augustine Restoration, Incorporated was founded by a group
of interested citizens. A non-profit corporation, it was formed, pri-
marily as a 'right arm" to the Preservation Board, to accept private
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financial contributions and donations of property. Restoration,Inc.
has more latitude than the Preservation Board in raising funds in
the private sector, and can act more quickly, with no "state red
tape" i.e., in hiring architects, other consultants or purchasing
property.
Properties donated to, or purchased by Restoration, Inc. are re-
habilitated and leased to the Preservation Board for operation.
Over two million dollars in reconstruction and restoration work has.
been accomplished by these two organizations. Restoration, Inc. is
now primarily involved in the acquisition of property within the
preservation program area. In an arrangement with the state, the
value of acquired property is used to obtain matching funds which,
in turn, are utilized to acquire additional property. Such acquired
lands are turned over to the state for development by the Preserv-
ation Board. The organization is currently involved in planning an
interpretive facility outside the historic district, portraying the
founding period of the city. Other activities in a different vein
are in the offing, although Restoration, Inc's President, William
F. Howlleston was "not at liberty to discuss them."
CONCLUSION
In St. Augustine a great deal of competent preservation work has
been accomplished through the cooperative efforts of the Preservation
Board and St. Augustine Restoration, Inc. In the past, large corporat-
ions, various societies, private individuals and religious organ-
izations have been active in St. Augustine's preservation effort.
That this diverse involvement has not always resulted in progress
toward a common goal is no surprise. With the complexity of the
coordination of this type of program, a comprehensive development
plan is a necessity. Such a detailed plan seems as though it would
be an important step in insuring improved activity coordination
and more efficient resource utilization.
The city's building code provides a fairly effective architectural
review mechanism, although the effectiveness of such a mechanism
depends to a great extent on the expertise of the individuals in-
volved and the guidelines furnished them. A means should be sought
to insure that knowledgeable individuals are involved in the review
process, and that they are furnished adequate guidelines to render
productive judgements. The lack of positive demolition control and
anti-neglect provisions are potential weaknesses in the regulatory
mechanism of the code.
It is difficult for me to assess the relative success of the St.
Augustine preservation program without further knowledge of the
progress being made in other similar programs. Although the St.
Augustine legislation is less explicit than that of the four similar
statutes which followed it, a solid base for development seems to
be created by the Board and the city government of St. Augustine.
BIBLIOGRAPHY
College of Architecture and Fine Arts. University of Florida. Florida
Historic Preservation Planning: a Symposium. Gainesville,
Floridat January 14-15, 1971.
Division of Archives, History, and Records Management. Florida Depart-
ment of State. Our Past...Our Future. Tallahassees 1973.
Florida. Revised Statutes, Annotated (1975).
Historical Restoration and Preservation Commission. The Restoration
of Saint Augustine, Oldest City in the United States. Saint
Augustine, Floridas 1960.
Little, Rod. Division of Archives, History, and Records IMnagement,
Tallahassee, Florida. Interview, 3 Mhrch 1976.
Rowlleston, William F. Saint Augustine Restoration, Inc. Saint
Augustine, Florida. Interview, 27 February 1976.
Saint Augustine Restoration, Inc. Saint Augustine. Saint Augustine,
Florida: n. d.
APPENDIX A
TABLE I
COLONIAL AND TERRITORIAL STRUCTURES IN ST. AUGUSTINE
Address Ownership
Castillo de San Marcos
City Gate
Wooden Schoolhouse
Arrivas House
Avero House
Avero-Watkins House
Spanish Inn
Paredes House
Triay House
Fornells House
Sanchez House
Joaneda House
Peck House
Perez House
Cathedral
Government House
Public Market
Trinity Church
Lindsley House
McMillan House
Library
Ximenes-Fatio House
Solano House
O'Reilly House
Toledo House
Canova House
Murat House
Sanchez House
Marin House
Jones House
Dummett House
Llambias House
Tovar House
Oldest House
St. Francis Barracks
King's Bakery
14 St. George
44 St. George
37 St. George
52 St. George
43 St. George
54 St. George
42 Spanish
62 Spanish
105 St. George
57 Treasury
143 St. George
101 Charlotte
Plaza
Plaza
Plaza
Plaza
214 St. George
224 St. George
12 Aviles
20 Aviles
20 Charlotte
32 Aviles
36 Aviles
46 Bridge
250 St. George
43 Marine
53 Marine
56 Marine
279 St. George
31 St. Francis
20 St. Francis
14 St. Francis
National Park Service
National Park Service
Private
Preservation Board
Greek Orthodox Church
Private
Restoration Foundation
Historical Society
Private
Private
Private
Preservation Board
City
Private
Catholic Church
Preservation Board
City
Episcopal Church
Private
Private
Library Association
Colonial Dames
Private
Catholic Church
Catholic Church
Private
Private
Private
Private
Private
Private
City
Historical Society
Historical Society
State
State
Name
D(' 1200'
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Map A
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APPENDIX C
PART I. HISTORIC ST. AUGUSTINE PRESERVA-
TION BOARD OF TRUSTEES
266.01 Historic St. Augustine Preservatiord Board of Trus-
tees; creation
There is created within the department of state the Historic
St. Augustine Preservation Board of Trustees. a body corporate,
the purpose and function of which shall be to acquire, restore,
preserve, maintain. reconstruct, reproduce and operate for the
use. benefit, education, recreation, enjoyment, and general wel-
fare of the people of this state and nation certain ancient or his-
toric landmarks, sites, cemeteries, graves, military works, monu-
ments, locations, remains, buildings, and other objects of histori-
cal or antiquarian interest of the City of St. Augustine, Florida,
and surrounding territory.
HISTORIC PRESERVATION, ETC. 266.03
race in the United States having con-
tinuous history, and
"Whireras, St. Augustilne pos.esses
historical values, cultural rraditions
and elcnwentt of unique boluuly and
chl;ir1i, including important liis' ric
sites of statc iand national interest
such as Castillo de San Marcos and
Fort la lnuzas, outstanding examples
of Spanis h military architecture of
the American colonial period, the old
city gates and other historical struc-
tures and houses of unusual interest,
and
"Whereas, it is desirable to assure
the restoration. the preservation and
maintenance of those and either im-
portanilt lalud a rks, st rul'tures, sites
and records of antiquity, relating to
St. Augustine. in order properly to
interpret and understand the history
of the state as well as all American
history, Now, Therefore,"
Cross References
Control by secretary of state of )boards under this chapter, see 2l";(,.20.
Library References
Statue 0C-4-.
C.J.S. States k 52. 66.
Historical Note
Derivation:
Liaws 1975l (. 7" 1ll 0, 1.
Laws ]. i;, c. (; 10l .6 10, : .5
Laws 1954, c. '-52l, 1.
Preamble:
laws .'19, c. 59-521, detained the
following pre.iiatle:
"Whereas, St. Augustine, Florida,
is the oldest community of the white
266.02 Definitions
Unless otherwise clearly indicated, the following words when
used in-this part shall have the following meanings:
(1) "Board"-the Historic St. Augustine Preservation Board
of Trustees of the department of state;
(2) "Facilities"-historic sites, objects, and facilities for ex-
hibition owned, rented, leased, managed, or operated by the
board;
(3) "Slum"-any areas where dwellings predominate which,
by reason of dilapidation, overcrowding, faulty arrangement or
design, lack of ventilation, light or sanitary facilities, or any
combination of these factors, are detrimental to health, safety,
or morals.
Historical Note
Derivation:
Laws 1970, c. 70-l(;0, 2.
Laws 199, c. W6 -10l. 10, 35.
La;iws .-'9, c. 59-521, 2.
266.03 Membership; terms of office, etc.
The board of trustees shall consist of five members to be ap-
pointed by the governor not later than thirty days after July 1,
1959. Members of the original board shall be appointed for
terms as follows: One for two years, two for three years and
two for four years, and thereafter members shall be appointed
for four year terms except appointments to fill vacancies for
323 _
V
Ch. 266
HISTORIC PRESERVATION, ETC. 266.06
unexpired terms in which event the appointment shall be for the
unexpired term only. In addition to the above members, the
board of trustees shall consist of two additional members who
need not be residents of the state and who shall be appointed by
the governor not later than thirty days after July 1, 1965. All
appointments of the board shall be confirmed by the senate.
The members of the board, including the chairman, shall receive
no compensation for their services but shall be entitled to be
reimbursed for per diem and travel expenses incurred in the
performance of their official duties as members of the board,
subject to the provisions and limitations of 112.061. Each
member shall give a surety bond in the sum of ten thousand dol-
lars executed by a surety company authorized to do business in
this state, payable to the governor and his successors in office,
and conditioned upon the faithful performance of his duties.
Historical Note
Derivation:
Li.m- 1970, c. 7(0-160. 3.
Laws 9;'s., c. C65-2, 1.
Li-ws 195, e. 59-521, 3.
States c 44 et s4eq.
Library References
C.J.1S. States 5 '2, 55., 56.
266.04 Organization, meetings, records
Not later than fifteen days after the appointment of its mem-
bership and annually thereafter, the board shall hold an organi-
zational meeting at which it shall elect from its membership a
chairman, a vice-chairman, and a secretary-treasurer. No busi-
ness shall be transacted by the board except at a regularly called
meeting at which a quorum is present and the minutes thereof
recorded. Permanent records shall be maintained which shall
reflect all official transactions of the board.
Historical Note
Derivation:
Lw: 1970, c. 70-1C0, 4.
L wixvs 1959, c. 59-521, 4.
266.05 Treasurer
The state treasurer shall be the ex officio treasurer of the
board and shall have the custody of all of its funds, to be kept in
a special account. All receipts and disbursements of the board
shall be handled subject to the same laws, rules, and regulations
as other state funds are handled.
Historical Note
Derivation:
Laws 1970, c. 70-100, 5.
Laws 1939, c. 59-521, 5.
266.06 Powers
The board shall be the governing body and have power:
(1) To adopt a seal and alter the same at pleasure;
(2) To contract and be contracted with, to sue and be sued, to
plead and be impleaded in all courts of law and equity;
(3) To exercise any power not in conflict with the constitu-
tion and laws of the state or the United States which is usually
possessed by private corporations or public agencies performing
comparable functions;
(4) To establish an office at or near the City of St. Augustine
for the conduct of its affairs;
(5) To acquire, hold, rent, lease, and dispose of real and per-
sonal property or any interest therein for its authorized pur-
pose;
(6) To own, operate, maintain, repair and improve its facili-
ties wherever located;
(7) To acquire in its own name by purchase, grant, devise,
gift, or lease, on such terms and conditions and in such manner
as it may deem necessary or expedient, or by condemnation, ex-
cept as otherwise herein provided, in accordance with and sub-
ject to state law applicable to condemnation of property for pub-
lic use, real property or rights or easements therein or franchis-
es necessary or convenient for its purposes and to use the same
so long as its existence shall continue and to lease or make con-
tracts with respect to the use or disposal of same, or any part
thereof, in any manner deemed by the board to be in its best in-
terest but only for the purposes for which it is created. No
property shall be acquired under the provisions of this part upon
which any lien or other encumbrance exists, unless at the time
said property is so acquired, a sufficient sum of money be depos-
ited in trust to pay and redeem such lien or encumbrance; nor
shall any property be acquired hereunder by condemnation
which is owned by a church, a cemetery association, or which is
presently used as a historical attraction;
'? ____--- ^ ^
266.03 PUBLIC LANDS AND PROPERTY
Title 17
Ch. 266
2G66.07 PI tBLC LANDS AND PROPERTY
fraying part of the cost incurred by it in carrying out the pur-
poses of this part.
Historical Note
Derivation:
Law- ]7(), 739 -]%;. 7.
Laiws 1: ; :. v 2"2.
Law- lo;.w 9-5'l-r21 7.
Library References
Slm i C2n1,1. C.J.S. Slates 361 At seM.
266.209 PUBLIC LANDS AND PROPERTY Title 17
266.209 Boards under chapter 266 subject to direct control
of secretary of state
The historic preservation board established in this part and
the historic preservation boards of trustees, established under
bdain te 2;6, for St. Augustine,-,Pensacola and Tallahassee shall
exercise their powers, duties and functions as prescribed by law,
su.jecl to budget review and approval by the secretary of state.
Th boAirds of tr-ustees shal] not be placed wivhin a division of
!' d.a].tr:ne1:t of >tate, but, administratively, shall be directly
under the supervision of the secretary.
Historical Note
Derivation:
I .;. 7'. c. 7 '-' 3 c.
Library References
.Sl.. l,. ':7 -li7. (.'..J.S. t;lll"- 5 ,' Clj6.
Title 17
APPENDIX D
Article 4. Definitions
Recreational Vehicle -
St. Augustine Architecture
??. Recreational Vehicle. A vehicular portable structure
built or, a chassis with its own wheels, either self-
propelled or towed by another vehicle designed to be
used as a temporary dwelling for travel, vacation,
camping or recreational purposes and including travel
trailers, camping trailers, pick-up campers, converted
buses, motor homes, tent trailers, pop-up trailers,
boats and boat trailers and similar devices.
rnis also includes any vehicle which carries a valid
state of Florida "RV" license plate.
84. Restaurant. An establishment where food is ordered,
prepared, and served for pay primarily for consumption
on the premises in a completely enclosed room, under
the roof of the main structure, or in an anterior court.
A drive-in restaurant as defined here is not a -estaurant.
A cafeteria shall be deemed a restaurant as defined herein
85. Rooming House. A dwelling used for the business of
furnishing accommodations to more than six persons or
lodgers.
G5. St. Augustine Architecture. A distinctive architectural
style influenced by the traditions of the Spanish,
English, Minorcan and early American inhabitants -as
adapted to utilize available materials and meet local
conditions of climate. This style is simple, functional
and unpretentious. The style is described and documented
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Article 4. Definitions
St. Aug. Architecture
in the book "The Houses of St. Augustine" by Albert
Manucy, published by the St. Augustine Historical
Society ; 962.
Houses were built flush with the street line, with the
remainder of the front line enclosed by a wall or fence
through which access was gained to the side yard and the
house. A few doors opened directly on the street after
1763. Houses imparted a massive but well-proportioned
look and were, one to two an a half stories in height.
The most common floor plan was a simple rectangle with a
loggia to the side or rear. Stairs to upper floors were
located at one end of the loggia in a protected alcove.
Some houses had an added wing, and a few were U-shaped.
Ground level floors were of tabby (shell concrete) at or
near grade, although some wooden floors set close to the
ground appeared late. Wooden second floors were carried
on exposed beams. Tabby or coquina walls were always
plastered inside and out. White is the only color
described, and was dominant well into the 19th century.
Some late exterior walls were scored in ashlar pattern.
Openings were generally large. Early doors were heavy
and solid, the six-panel door appearing after 1763.
Windows with inside shutters and protecting wooden grills
(rejas) were the rule until 1763. Iron grillwork was'
never characteristic of Spanish St. Augustine. After
1763 double hung windows with glass panes appeared, and
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Article 4. Definitions
St. Aug. Architecture -
Service Station
shutters moved to the outside. All woodwork was simple
and somewhat heavy. Street balconies were common; the
early forris supported by corbelled beams. Some second
stories were of wood, usually clapboard. Chimneys were
rare before 1763; common thereafter. Decoration and
ornamentation was minimal and simple.
Before 1763 flat roofs were present, particularly on
masonry houses; they were rare thereafter. Pitched
roofs of both gable and hip types were commonest and
were covered with thatch or wooden shingles. Tiled
roofs are not characteristic of the St. Augustine style.
In interpreting St. Augustine architecture as a basis
for construction under this Zoning Ordinance aspects of
scale, proportion, fabric and texture shall approach the
historic modes insofar as possible and practical, but
the rule shall be to give reasonable latitude for
modifications and aJaptations necessitated by modern
use and convenience, both in business and residential
construction.
87. Sanitarium. A facility for the recuperation and treat-
ment of physical or mental disorders, without provision
for. major surgery.
83. Service Station. An establishment whose principal
business is the dispensing at retail of gasoline and
oil and where grease, batteries, tires, and automobile
-25-
Article 11. Historic
Preservation Committee
Sec 1-1
"R(^ : :HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
: .-.1t Historic Preservation Committee Establishment
and Procedure.
Creation. A Historic Preservation Committee,
consisting of five (5) members appointed by the
city commission of the CiLy of St. Augustine, has
been created and is hereby continued. The Director
of the Historic St. Augustine Preservation Board,
the Presideni of St. AugusLine Restoration, Inc.,
and the President of the St. Augustine Historical
Society, or their assigned designee shall be ex
officio members of the committee and shall serve in
an advisory capacity.
..2 *Tenure. Members of the original board as established
herein shall be appointed for terms as follows:
One for one year, two for two years and two for
three years, and there after members shall be
appointed for three year terms except appointments
to fill vacancies for unexpired terms in which
-vent the appointment shall be for the unexpired
:erm only. The members of the Historic Preservation
-mmittee at the time of this enactment shall serve
intil they are reappoinLed or their successors are
k appointed.
-153-
Article 11. Historic
Preservation Committee
Sec 11-1
Representation. All members shall reside in and
h: a qu-;;ified voter and property owner in the
city and shall hold no office under the city government
and shall not be a member of the Zoning Board or
Planning Commission. Each member shall be appointed
by the city commission of the City of St. Augustine
for a term of three (3) years, except as noted in
section 1.2, page 153, and removable only for cause.
The chairman of the committee shall be named by the
members of the committee. Vacancies shall be filled
for the unexpired term of any member by the city
commi ssi on.
The committee shall adopt its own rules of procedure,
provided same are not in conflict with the provisions
of this ordinance.
a. Three or more members shall constitute .a
quorum and shall be in power to act. An
affirmative vote of three or more members
shall be necessary in making any decision
of the committee.
The committee shall promptly notify the
building inspecto., in writing, as to its
decision in :'i.gar-d to any matter referred
to it.
- I ) 4-
.5
I I I U_ I I 11 I L U I I L
Preservation Committee
Sec 11 -2
S 1- 2. Historic Preservatiun Committee Powers and Duties.
T; -- ,nctiCo..s, powers and duties of the Historic Preservation
o imitLee she be, in general:
a. To serve as. an adjustment committee on matters relating
to construction, reconstruction, demolition, erection
re-erection, restoration or repair of any structure
locatLed within historic preservation districts HP-1,
HP-2, HP-3, lIP-4 and HP-5.
b. To review all applications for building permits within
the historical preservation districts (HP-I, hP-2, HP-3,
HP-4 and HP-5) and make a determination as to whether
or not the application warrants the issuance of a
certificate of appropriateness. Additionally the
committee shall review all.applications for building
permits on property abutLing or immediately facing
the (HP-1, HP-2, liP-3 or HP-4) historical districts
to insure reasonable compatibility with the authentic
restoration or preservation of the districts, and where
found to be reasonably compatible, issue a certificate
of appropriateness.
To consider and act upon applications for certificates
-: appropriateness as to the exterior architectural
-i '5-
Article 11. Historic
Preservation Committee
Sec 11-2
-.atures ol any building or other structures proposed for
erection. alteration, restoration or to be moved within a
historic district. Exterior architectural features shall
include the architectural style, general design, an:!
general arrangement of the exterior of a building or other
structure, including the color, the kind and texture of the
building material and the type and style of all windows,
doors, light fixtures, signs and other appurtenant fixtures.
The committee shall follow the definition of St. Augustine
architecture as described in Article 4, item 86, page 23.
However, structures within the historic districts erected
after the period of said St. Augustine architecture, but before
1900, may be considered for alteration or restoration to their
original architectural style, or may be moved to insure their
preservation. In the case of outdoor advertising signs
exterior architectural features shall be construed to mean
the style, material size, and location of all such signs.
Any building, structures and appurtenances LheLre to, erected
prior to the year 1821 in Districts HP-1, HP-2, and HP-3
and any buildings, structures and appurtenances thereto,
e-rected prior to the year 1900 in District HP-4, may be
.tered, repaired, erected, reerected, restored or -recon-
-ructed on the original foundations or site thereof, as
nearly as possible and whenever practical according to its
ancient character ,,:'! dimensions; provided however, that all
detailed plans and i n I orma ion required ;.u determine
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Article 11. Historic
Preservation Committee
Sec 11-2
appropriateness are submitted to the historic
preservation committee for their review.
J. The committee shall not have the authority
to consider interior arrangement.
e. To review all applications for demolition
permits within the city limits of St. Augustine,
to include Historical Preservation Districts
HP-1, HP-2, HP-3, HP-4, and HP-5. No building
or structure within the city limits shall be
demolished or otherwise removed until the
owner thereof shall have given the Historic
Preservation Committee 90 days written notice
of his proposed action. During such ninety-day
period the Historic Preservation Committee may
negotiate with the owner and with any other
parties in an effort to find a means of pre-
serving the building if the building or
structure is deemed by the Historic Preservation
Committee to be of historic significance. If the
Historic Preservation Committee finds that the
building involved has no particular historic
l i.;ni fi chance or value toward maintaining the
.;;aracter of the district, it may waive all or
part o! such ninety-day period 0 and autlhori ze
earlier demolition or removal.
tf iLitl I1 n isturl c
Preservation Committee
Sec 11-3
: i-3. Administration and Records.
3_.1 Certiticate of Appropriateness. The building
inspector shall not issue any necessary building
or demolition permit and/or certificate of occupancy
unless the Historic Preservation Committee approves
the application for a certificate of appropriateness.
Such permit shall be subject to the terms of such
approval as well as other necessary provisions of
the City Code of Ordinances.
2 Procedure for ,iling. Applications for certificates
of appropriateness shall be submitted through the
office of the building inspector and shall include,
in duplicate, all plans, elevations, and other
information necessary to determine the appropriateness
of the features to be passed upon.
3.3 Hearing. Prior to issuance or denial of a certi-
ficate of appropriateness, the Committee shall take
such action as may reasonably be required to inform
the owners of any property likely to be materially
affected by the application and shall give the
applicant and such owners an opportunity to be
heard. The Committee shall hold a public hearing
concerning eak, h application.
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Article 11. Historic
Preservation Committee
Sec 11-3
. pprova I of A I cati on. Upon approval of an
application, the Historic Preservation Committee
shall transmit a report to the building inspector
stating the basis upon which such approval was
made, and cause a certificate of appropriateness
to be issued to the applicant. Upon failure of
the Committee to take final action upon any case
within 90 days after the application for a permit,
the case shall be deemed to be approved, except
when by mutual agreement the time limit has been
extended. When a certificate of appropriateness
has been issued, the building inspector shall
from time to time inspect the construction or
alteration approved by such certificate, and take
appropriate action concerning any work not in
accordance with such certificate. The building
inspector shall report his findings to the
committee when such action is deemed necessary.
3 5 Disapproval of Application. In case of disapproval
of an application for a certificate of appropriateness
the Historic Preservation Committee shall state
its reasons; therefore, in a written statement to
the building inspector .and the applicant along
with any recommendations as it may deem appropriate
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Article 11. Historic
Preservation Commi ttee
Sec 11-3
concerning'( any exterior architectural features of
the pr, pocd project which may be of guidance or
help to the applicant in revising his plans.
'.L- Appeal. An appeal may be taken by any aggrieved
person to the St. Augustine City Commission from the
committee's action in granting or denying a certificate
or appropriateness. The appeal shall be as prescribed
in Article 10, Section 11.3, page 139. Any appeal from
the decision of the St. Augustine City Commission shall
be heard by the Circuit Court of St. Johns County,
on writ of certiorari, as in the case of any other
zoning decision from the City Commission.
3.7 Review by City Commission: The St. Augustine City
Commission may review and reverse the issuance or
denial of a certificate of appropriateness considered
by the Historic Preservation Committee.
3.8 Record. The Historic Preservation Committtee shall
keep minutes of its proceedings, showing the vote
of each member upon each question or, if absent or
failing to vote, indicating such fact, uand shall keep
records of all it.:, official actions. All meetings of
the Historic Preservation Committee shall be open to
the public.
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SArticle 6. Dist Reg
HP-1
b. Mobile Home Subdivision.
For each mobile home lot:
(1) Front and rear yard: 15 feet
(2) Side yard: 5 feet
Si.n 6-.6. Historic Preservation Districts: HP-1, HP-2,
HP-3, HP-4, HP-5.
The historical heritage of the City of St. Augustine is
-f its mc-t valued and important assets.. It is therefore
purpose of the Historic District regulations:
1. to safeguard the heritage of the City of St. Augustine
by preserving the districtss, which reflect noteworthy
elements of the cultural, educational, social, economic,
political, and/or architectural history;
2. to educate the citizen to realizing, understanding,
and appreciating the city's rich heritage;
3. to stimulate a greater awareness 'and sense of pride
in the founding of the City and the contributions it
has made to the state and nation;
4. to develop an atmosphere and feeling of old, historic
St. Augustine by encouraging the preservation and
;-estoration of historic structures within the districts;
to improve the environmental quality and overall
liveability of the historic section of St. Augustine;
c. to stabilize and improve property values in the district;
; to promote, the use and preservation of the district
Article 6. Dist Reg
HP-1
fc,- the education, welfare, and pleasure of residents
of St. Augustine and St. Johns County--and of the state
and action n as well;
;. that these aforementioned goals and objectives of the
Historic District be achieved and implemented th-ough
the establishment of and enforcement of the general
districtt guidelines and specific district regulations.
iistri ct HP-1.
North -
i.Jst -
South -
This district is bounded as follows:
Easterly along a line running parallel to
and sixty-five feet r.orth of Palm Row
for a distance of one-hundred ninety
feet; thence northerly along a line
running parallel to St. George Street'
for seventy feet; thence easterly to
St. George Street; thence southerly
along St. George Street .to Cadiz Street;
thence easterly along Cadiz Street to
Marine Street; thence southerly along
Marine Street to Bridge Street; thence
easterly along Bridge Street to the
Matanzas River or Bay.
Matanzas River or Bay.
Cemetery Lane westerly to Charlotte Street;
thence southerly to San Salvador Street;
thence westerly to St. George Street and
continuing a westerly projection line to
Cordova Street.
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Article 6. Dist Reg
HP-1 HP-2
West Cordova Street between a projection line
of San Salvadore Street to Palm Row.
Permitted Uses and Structures
a. Single family dwellings
b. Schools
c. Boarding and rooming houses
d. Museums
e. Libraries
f. Military and religious organizations
g. Reconstructed historic buildings with related
uses. Related uses shall mean historical uses
or permitted uses as listed in this section.
(Article 6, Section 6-6, sub-section 6.1.)
h. Churches
i. Multiple family dwellings
4-
ea District HP-2.
North -
East -
South -
This district is bounded as follows:
Hypolita Street easterly to Charlotte
Street; thence northerly along Charlotte
Street to Cuna Street; thence easterly
along Cuna Street to the Matanzas River
or Bay.
Matanzas River or Bay
Easterly along a line running parallel to
and sixty-five feet north of Palm Row for
a distance on one-hundred ninety-feet;
Article 6. Dist Reg
HP-2
thence northerly along a line running
parallel to St. George Street for seventy
feet; thence easterly to St. George Street;
thence southerly along St. George Street to
Cadiz Street; thence easterly along Cad,z
Street to Marine Street; thence southerly
along Marine Street to Bridge Street;
thence easterly along Bridge Street to
Matanzas River or Bay.
West Cordova Street between Palm Row and
Hypolita Street.
': Permitted Uses and Structures
a. Single family dwellings
b. Churches
c. Hotels and motels with or without
kitchenettes
d. Professional offices and services
e. Banks and other financial institutions
f. Retail stores selling new merchandise
g. Antique, souvenir, gift, craft and other
shops related to the historic character
of St. Augustine
h. Service establishments such as barber or
beauty shop, shou repair shop, restaurants
(but not drive-in restaurants), dry cleaners
-49-
Article 6. Dist Reg
HP-2 HP-3
district
N
S
and laundry pick-up stations, providing
that no processing be done on the premises.
i. Cocktail lounge or tavern
j. Museums
k. Multiple family dwellings
1. Indoor theaters
m. Governmental or municipal office uses.
HP-3. This district is bounded as follows:
north Grove Avenue easterly to San Marco Avenue;
thence soutnerly along San Marco Avenue to
the intersection of the projection of a
line running along the northern boundary
of the Castillo de San Marcos National
Monument Re-servation; thence easterly along
this projection line to Matanzas River or Bay.
East Matanzas River or Bay
south Hypolita Street easterly to Charlotte
Street; thence northerly along Charlotte
Street to Cuna Street; thence easterly
along Cuna Street to the Matanzas River
or Bay.
West Cordova Street between Hypolita Street
and Castillo Drive; thence westerly along.
Castillo Drive to Ribera Street; thence
southerly along Riberia Street to Orange
-50-
Article 6. Dist Reg
HP-3 HP-4
Street, thence westerly along Orange Street
to U.S. Highway 1; thence northerly along
U.S. Highway 1 to Grove Avenue.
Permitted Uses and Structures.
a. Single family dwellings
b. Antique, souvenir, gift or craft shops
related to the historic character of St.
Augustine.
c. Rc.taurants (but not drive-in restaurants),
taverns, or cocktail lounges
d. Museums
e. Reconstructed historic buildings with related
uses. Related uses shall mean historical uses
or permitted uses as listed in this section.
(Article 6, Section 6-6, sub-section 6.3.)
f. Professional offices
g. Reception and Information Center
h. Governmental or municipal office uses
i. Multiple family dwellings.
rict HP-4. This district is bounded as follows:
North Valencia Street between Sevilla Street
and Cordova Street.
East Cordova Street, between Valencia Street
and Bridge Street.
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Article 6. Dist Reg
HP-4
:'.-th Bridge Street, between Cordova Street
and Granada Street
aes Sevilla Street, between Valencia Street
and King Street; thence easterly on
King Street to Granada Street; thence
southerly on Granada Street to Bridge Street
Permitted Uses and Structures.
a. Governmental or municipal office and
service uses to include exhibits.
b. Schools, colleges and universities with
conventional academic curriculums.
c. Museums.
d. Professional and business offices and services.
e. Indoor theaters.
f. Retail stores selling new merchandise.
g. Antique, souvenir, gift, craft and other
shops related to the historic character of
St. Augustine.
h. Service establishments such as barber or
beauty shop, shoe repair shop, restaurants
(but not drive-in restaurants), dry cleaners
and laundry pick-up stations, providing that
no processing be done on the premises.
.ling heights for new construction in HP-1, HP-2, HP-3,
i1 be limited to two and one-half (2 1/2) stories, not
thirty (30) feet in height. This height restriction
-52-
Article 6. Dist Reg
HP-5
to the HP-5 districts. All new buildings or
.in these historical districts shall conform to
'rne architecture. New construction, whenever practical
..Oorm to old foundation lines in order that the -original
pattern of development, can be preserved.
Intent.
This district is intended to apply to areas
of historical significance outside the boundaries
of the basic Historic District (HP-1 through HP-4),
developed as individual sites which interpret or
memorialize aspects of St. Augustine history through
preservation, restoration, reconstruction or re-
creation and containing adequate area for such
development, including parking and supporting
services. It is not intended that this district be
used for single markers, monuments, or isolated
historical features.
-5 Permitted Uses and Structures.
a. Restored, reconstructed, or recreated historical
structures with related uses.
b. Monuments and memorial structures.
c. Museums and reception centers.
d. Religious structures and churches.
e. Antique, gift, souvenir and craft shops related
to the historic nature of St. Augustine.
-53-
Article 6. Dist Reg
HP-5 CPO
";:**,;taurant and refreshment stand but not drive-in
S t s tF! 0 1a 11 t .
i'-Il1iss bible Use by Exception.
a. On the same premises and in connection with
permitted principal uses and structures,
dwelling units only for occupancy by owners or
employees thereof, for purposes of protection
and management of uses on the site.
minimum Lot Requirements.
None
Maximum Lot Coverage.
N o e
Mini mum Yard Requirements.
None
Maximum Height of Structures.
35 feet
Permitted Accessory Uses and StrucLures.
a. See Section 7-18, page 109.
b. Parking lots complying with Section 7-17.3, page 107.
Commercial, Professional and Office (CPO)
Permitted Uses and Structures.
Single family dwellings as for RG-1.
>. Medical and dental offices (but not clinic
or hospital), chiropractor (but not masseur).
c. Professional offices, such as accountant,
architect, attorney, engineer, land surveyor,
optometrist and similar uses.
-54-
APPENDIX E
concerned with its programs in any manner. Some specific relationships are
enumerated below:
1. St. Augustine Restoration Foundation, Inc. Maintain close working
relationship in the development of San Agustin Antiguo, and assist the
Foundation in its proposed development of an interpretive facility outside the
Historic District portraying the founding period.
2. Federal Programs. In particular, work with the National Park Service
to achieve a common boundary with Castillo de San Marcos National Monument and
to develop mutually advantageous interpretive programs. Participate in other
pertinent federal programs.
3. State Programs. Cooperate with sister agencies within the Department
of State, and with other state departments and agencies with programs related
to the duties and functions of the Board.
4. City and County Government. Work with the two governing bodies for the
preservation of our heritage. Encourage proper zoning, ordinances, and stan-
dards for this purpose, and work with the city's Historic Preservation Committee
which has the responsibility of architectural review within the Historic District.
5. St. Augustine Historical Society. Cooperate in all parallel program
aspects, including preservation, restoration, reconstruction, research and in-
terpretation. Aid in any possible way the growth of the research library of
the Society.
6. Religious Bodies. Cooperate in the preservation activities of the vari-
ous churches relating to their historic properties in and near the community.
7. Educational Institutions. Encourage cooperative programs with colleges
and universities, including research activities in the fields related to the
program of the Board. Encourage academic research and teaching on St. Augustine
topics. Develop educational programs to be used both on-site and off-site by
elementary and secondary teachers and students.
8. The Media. Cooperate with and provide information to the press, radio,
film, and television, and to writers and others working on subjects related to
the history of St. Augustine and its environs.
9. Non-profit Organizations. Cooperate with other non-profit groups con-
cerned with St. Augustine and its history, such as the Colonial Dames, Public
Library, Lightner Museum and Cross and Sword. When possible, cooperate with non
profit museums and other institutions and organizations throughout the State of
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Florida in presenting the St. Augustine story to the public.
10. Private Efforts. Advise and cooperate with individuals, businesses
and corporations interested in preserving, restoring, or reconstructing pri-
vate properties in and around the Historic District.
11. Professional Organizations. Maintain active membership, liaison, and
participation in professional organizations related to the work of the Board,
such as: American Association of Museums, American Association for State and
Local History, National Trust for-Historic Preservation, Association for Pres-
ervation Technology, and national, regional and state societies representing
the several subject matter fields involved in the program.
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