Demolition

All applications for demolition are referred to the full Vieux Carré Commission for action. At the first regular monthly Commission meeting where the application is presented, it is accepted by the Commission and laid over to the next regular monthly Commission meeting before action is taken. Accepting the application simply requires the action of the Chairman. The Commission may waive the monthly layover period and take immediate action, however, only by a motion to that effect.

It should be noted that the Vieux Carré Commission's precedent is to enact the monthly layover period in every case. The only exception to this procedure is a situation of imminent public danger whereby a special permit may be issued by the staff or Architectural Committee for an emergency demolition.

The demolition of buildings of any architectural or historical importance, or that form of demolition which takes place slowly by neglect, is not allowed. Generally, any building or portion of building which is rated as contributing to the scene (i.e. yellow) or better cannot be demolished. Structures which in the past have been rated as not contributing to the scene (i.e. brown) or of twentieth century construction (orange) may be required to be retained because of their size, scale, and growing importance to the historical context of the Vieux Carré.

Detailed plans must be submitted which show exactly what is proposed for demolition.

No demolition permit is issued without prior conceptual approval by the Vieux Carré Commission of the proposed new construction.