Why should you live in Greater Belhaven?
Ask anyone who lives here and you’re likely to get a variety of answers. From a wonderful sense of community to beautiful homes, parks and other amenities, to easy access to Mississippi’s best healthcare, restaurants and retail, to protected home and property values – the reasons are varied and many. But, we believe, it is all of these, and something else.
Greater Belhaven is a community like no other. Sure, we have the historic homes, the beautiful green spaces and all of the amenities (and more!) that you’d expect, but more importantly, we have the people.
It is the people of Belhaven and Belhaven Heights that make this place so special. The people – the professionals, entrepreneurs, students, writers, artists and dreamers – who support organizations like ours and who work side-by-side to improve their home, and to make it worthy of the name.
Join us in Greater Belhaven, if not for the many amenities, then most certainly for the people. We believe you’ll fit right in.
What You Need to Know About Historic Preservation
Historic preservation in an important aspect of the Greater Belhaven neighborhood; our historic and eclectic architecture, mature tree canopy, and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks are important defining characteristics of our community.
All residential properties in Belhaven are part of the Belhaven Historic District, and are therefore subject to the City of Jackson Historic Preservation Ordinance. The Ordinance is administered by the City, and all decisions concerning it are made by the City’s planning department and the city’s Historic Preservation Commission. Members of the HPC are volunteers from each City Council ward, who are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the City Council.
Obtaining a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA)
Most external alternations to residential properties in Belhaven will need prior approval from the City of Jackson’s Historic Preservation Commission. Property owners must file an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) with the City’s planning department before starting alternations.
The HPC meets monthly to consider COA applications, and applications may need to be submitted a month or more in advance of a scheduled meeting. Certain alterations, such as changes to paint color, interior renovations, and some routine maintenance, do not require a COA.
However, property owners should consult with the City before making any exterior alterations, including changing the style or materials of windows, doors, or roofing; adding or removing architectural elements such as decks, porches, garages, windows or doors, cutting trees, and erecting or changing hardscape features such as fences, driveways, steps or decks. Information about the city’s historic districts and an application for a COA can be found on the city’s website.
NOTE: This link is provided only as a courtesy to property owners. GBNF, BIA and BHCA do not administer or control the City’s Historic Preservation Ordinance or the Historic Preservation Commission, do not appoint members of the HPC, and do not give advice concerning the appropriateness of alterations.
If you have difficulty navigating this process, please feel free to reach out to us for further assistance or information.
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