Historic board backs staff interpretation tightening rooftop height rules in Passoverlay District

The Historic Preservation Board on April 2 endorsed staff’s proposed interpretation to clarify how the Passoverlay District’s height limits apply to flat and low‑slope roofs.

Brandon (staff) told the board that by code "the top of the parapet of the flat roof cannot exceed 28 feet," while the city’s overall code includes a 32‑foot limit for pitched roofs. Staff proposed an interpretation that would allow only nonoccupiable rooftop appurtenances (spires, chimneys, mechanical vents) to extend into the space between 28 and 32 feet but would not permit occupiable storage or elevator landings above the 28‑foot flat‑roof parapet.

Board members said they were concerned about previous cases in which large rooftop storage or elevator enclosures effectively created occupiable floor area above the flat‑roof limit. Several members said they supported forwarding staff’s interpretation to the city commission for confirmation so the city has a consistent standard going forward. Chair Lowry said the board should take the interpretation to the commission "as soon as possible." Staff noted the interpretation would apply prospectively to projects that have not completed design review or submitted for building permits; projects already through design review or with an active permit would be vested under previous interpretations.

The board did not take a formal recorded roll‑call vote on a code change at this meeting; members spoke individually in support and staff will present the interpretation to the city commission for final action.