The H (historic overlay) district is intended to encourage but not mandate the preservation of architecturally significant structures by permitting relaxed development standards such as parking requirements and setbacks in recognition of the preservation of architectural features, which are no longer commonly used in design practice and considered important to the social fabric of the community. The district is designed to accommodate various types of uses such as professional and administrative offices, home occupations, and limited light commercial activities (such as antique stores, hair dressers, barbershops, art galleries and studios, and bed and breakfast) and other uses, which are compatible with the structure and the adjacent neighborhood.

The requirements and procedures set out in this chapter are designed and intended to be applied in such a manner as to provide maximum design flexibility to the property owner, or developer, yet allow the City to encourage but not mandate design features that are consistent with the building's architecture and arrangement of uses within the project. The "H" designation may combine with the various zones called out in the provisions of this title.

The following uses are permitted in the H districts, providing the use is allowed in the underlying zoning district, and subject to approval of a planned development permit or a conditional use permit:

Any use permitted in any of the following districts may be permitted in the H district in accordance with the following regulations. The symbol "H" shall be combined with the following district designations and land so designated may be used as follows:

Where the Planning Commission determines that the best interest of the community will be secured by application of H district standards so that the highest and best quality development may be achieved in accordance with provisions of the adopted land use element of the City.

When the property owner or his designated agent files an application with the Community Development Department for rezoning, together with the required filing fee, as determined by resolution of the Council, and with a preliminary development plan as described in this chapter.