Historical & Architectural Review Board

HARB is authorized by PA state law to advise Borough Council on applications to demolish, renovate and alter buildings in the Borough’s Historic District. HARB meets once a month (last Thursday at 7 p.m.) to review and discuss applications that include written documents, images of what a building will look like, and occasionally floor plans. HARB also advises on new development design, as well as demolitions, renovations, etc.

There are a total of eight members who serve staggered three-year terms, so there are three positions up for grabs in the new year.

Check out our media center to hear our meetings.

Meetings

  • 7 p.m.
  • Last Thursday of every month
  • Applications are due no later than ten days prior to the HARB meeting.
  • West Chester Borough Hall
    401 E Gay St.
    Room 232
    West Chester, PA 19380
  • All meetings are open to the public

Meeting Schedule Details
Link to Details (PDF) for applicants scheduled to attend HARB meetings.

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval.

View Most Recent Agendas

Historic Design Guidelines

Overview

Membership

Members serve a 3-year term. The board is made up of a majority of resident electors and is comprised of no less than 7 members including:

  • 1 architect
  • 1 licensed real estate broker
  • 1 Planning Commission member
  • 1 building inspector

Certificate of Appropriateness

Apply for a Certificate of Appropriateness (PDF) through the Historical and Architectural Review Board (HARB).

HARB's SharePoint Site.