The City of St. Charles has adopted Historic Preservation Ordinances for the purposes of:

• Fostering an awareness of the unique history of the City embodied in its architecture and historic sites
• Protecting the character of portions of the City which have significant historic, architectural, or aesthetic features
• Protecting and increasing the property value of historic areas and designated sites.

Through the Zoning Ordinance, the City Council has designated the Historic Preservation Commission, an appointed citizen commission to:

• Interpret and apply review standards to building permits applications and new development projects in the Historic District
• Review and recommend to the City Council on designation of new Historic Districts or Landmark sites
• Inform and educate citizens of the historic and architectural heritage of the City
• Consult and assist property owners of historic buildings

The Historic Preservation Commission also reviews and recommends on projects for the Facade Improvement Grant Program.