Permit Requirements for Window Replacement in Historic Buildings Under the DC Building Code (Section 111.1.2), a building permit is required before replacing windows in historic landmarks and buildings in historic districts. This provision applies to all window replacement, including replacements in kind. It does not apply to buildings that are not landmarks or within historic districts. Materials Required for Review Under the DC Historic Landmark and Historic District Protection Act (DC Law 2-144), building permit applications affecting historic properties must be referred to the Historic Preservation Review Board. The Board requires the following materials for review of replacement windows (see DCMR Sec. 2608): Exterior photographs of the building in question; If pertinent, photographs of the immediate neighborhood; and Architectural drawings of sufficient completeness to indicate the design of the replacement windows. The Board may also request any additional information as may be reasonably necessary for a decision or recommendation (DCMR Sec. 2608.4). Window Guidelines Applicants considering window replacement should consult the window guidelines issued by the Historic Preservation Office. Copies of the guidelines, entitled Windows and Doors for Historic Buildings, are available from the Office at no charge. Applicants are also encouraged to consult with Historic Preservation Office staff prior to undertaking a window replacement project. The Historic Preservation Office can be reached by phone at (202) 442-8818 and is located at 801 North Capitol Street NE Suite 3000 Washington, DC 20002 Replacement In Kind If proposed replacement windows will not alter the exterior appearance of the building, the Historic Preservation Office staff can clear the permit application without referral to the Board. To be considered "replacement in kind," the new windows must reasonably match the design, profile, material, and general appearance of the originals. Adequate documentation is required for the staff to make this determination. Documentation must include good quality photographs of the existing windows and material sufficient to describe the appearance of the replacement window. Such information may include architectural plans, photographs, documentation from the manufacturer's catalog, or product samples.