Youngstown, OH Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Downtown Design Guide (2026)

Youngstown Codified Ordinances § 1102.03(a) puts every proposed building, addition or exterior remodeling job in the Central Area, other than projects in the I-L and I-H Industrial Districts, through Design Review Committee review covering architectural character, facade treatment, color, roofscape and scale. Suggested facade materials include masonry, glazed ceramic tile, wood, plaster, stucco, stone, brick, marble and terra cotta; aluminum or metal facades and solid walls lacking design features are strongly discouraged. Bold, vibrant, fluorescent or neon color schemes face stringent review under § 1102.03(a)(2), while neutrals and earthtones are favored.

Roofscape review under § 1102.03(a)(3) requires roof materials visible from the street or adjoining properties to be compatible with neighboring buildings; suggested materials include slate, copper, terra cotta tile and solar panels, while roll roofing and aluminized panels are discouraged. HVAC units, elevator shafts and satellite dishes on the roof must be made as inconspicuous as possible from adjacent properties and public rights-of-way, with painting the equipment black offered as one compliance method. The Committee gives particular weight to renovation compatible with the historic storefront theme along West Federal Street between Market Street and Belmont Avenue and the intersecting streets of Phelps, Hazel and Chestnut.

Demolition within the Design Review District also requires Committee approval and can trigger a request for structural, economic feasibility and marketing documentation before the Committee will sign off.