Stratford, CT Historic Preservation: Historic-Cultural Monuments (2026)

Section 121-2 of the Stratford Code, enacted by the Town Council, does two things. Subsection A designates the Academy Hill Historic District under C.G.S. §§ 7-147c to 7-147k, with boundaries shown on a map on file in the Town Clerk's office as Map No. 2714. Subsection B designates local historic properties under C.G.S. §§ 7-147p to 7-147y, naming the Nicoll-Benjamin House at 1850 Elm Street, a parcel of 8,098 square feet. Section 121-3 creates the Stratford Historic District Commission to administer both programs, and Section 121-4 sets it at five regular and three alternate members who are electors of the Town.

Section 121-6 is the operative control. No building or structure can be erected or altered in the district or on a historic property until an application for a certificate of appropriateness as to exterior architectural features has been submitted to and approved by the Commission. The Town cannot issue a building permit, or a demolition permit for demolition or removal, until the certificate issues, and a certificate is required whether or not a building permit is. Outdoor advertising signs fall under the Commission, though the section does not reach exterior paint color. Industrial, commercial or business parking in the district also needs a certificate.

Under Section 121-7, the Commission holds a public hearing on each application, with legal notice published not more than 15 days nor less than five days before the hearing, and must decide within 65 days of filing. Failure to act within the 65 days is approval. Section 121-11 allows ordinary maintenance and repair that does not change appearance, and delays demolition for 90 days from permit issuance while the Commission or the Connecticut Historical Commission looks for a purchaser or alternative. Property owned by a nonprofit institution of higher education is exempt for as long as it owns the property.