The Bristol Historic District Commission (HDC):
- Regulates development in designated Local Historic District and on individually-designated properties to protect the unique physical character, historic fabric, and visual identity of the Town of Bristol;
- Reviews proposals for any exterior alteration, new construction, landscaping, repair, removal, or demolition of buildings, structures, or their appurtenances located within the historic district; and
- Contains residential, commercial, religious, educational, industrial, governmental, transportation, and civic buildings, in addition to other structures and open spaces.
Construction dates range from the 18th century to the present day, and architectural styles range from Colonial to Modern.
To find out whether your property is within the Historic District or is an individually-designated property, check out our Historic Properties map by clicking the image to the right, or download it by clicking the link below.
Historic District Commission Brochure
Click the link below to view the Bristol Historic Commission’s informational brochure. Its contents cover the following:
- Historical and Architectural Legacy of the Town.
- What is a Historic District?
- What is the Bristol Historic District Commission?
- What properties are within the Historic District.
- A map of the Historic District.
- Guidelines for Review of Applications/Renovations.
- How Projects get Reviewed by the HDC.
- How to Obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness.
- Commonly Asked Questions.
- Information regarding Saving Money on Repairs for Buildings within the Historic District.
Commission Review Process
Learn more about the design review process for your project and obtaining a Certificate of Appropriateness.
Financial Incentives & Assistance
Learn more about the local, state, and federal incentives and financial assistance programs.
Historical & Architectural Legacy
With buildings constructed over a 300 year span, Bristol has a remarkable historical and architectural legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to commonly asked questions regarding the Town of Bristol’s Historic District Commission.
Meeting Packets
Please contact the Historic District Staff Assistant at 401-253-7000 ext. 144 for any questions regarding applications and meeting materials.
Committee Members
- Oryann Lima, Chairman
- John Allen
- Ben Bergenholtz
- Victor Cabral, Jr.
- Mary Millard
- Christopher Ponder
- Sara (Sally) Butler
- Sonney Furtado, Alternate
Meeting Information
Meeting agendas are made available to the public through the RI Secretary of State website before a scheduled meeting. Once posted, meeting times will appear below.
Volunteer
Are you interested in volunteering on one of the Town’s boards or commissions? View available openings here, or email the Town Clerk.
RI Historic Preservation & Heritage Commission
The Commission is the state agency for historical preservation and heritage programs. The Commission operates a statewide historical preservation program that identifies and protects historic buildings, districts, structures, and archaeological sites.
Preservation Rhode Island
Preserve Rhode Island is a nonprofit organization with a mission to protect Rhode Island’s historic structures and unique places for present and future generations. They have information useful to historic property owners.
Historic New England
Historic New England is a museum of cultural history that collects and preserves buildings, landscapes, and objects dating from the seventeenth century to the present and uses them to keep history alive and to help people develop a deeper understanding and enjoyment of new England life and appreciation for its preservation.
National Trust for Historic Preservation
The Trust is a nonprofit organization that supports historic preservation across the country. They have a great deal of information for historic property owners.
Contact Us
Address: 10 Court Street, Bristol, RI 02809
Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Ray Falcoa
Code Compliance Coordinator | Historic District Commission Coordinator
Phone: (401) 253-7000 ext. 144