Boundary Lines of the North End Historic District

The short answer

Because the North End Historic District is not a simple neighborhood boundary but rather a collection of specific preservation overlays, it cannot be described with a static list of streets. The district is managed via the City of Boise’s planning records, and its boundaries are distinct from the general North End neighborhood. To determine if a specific property is subject to historic preservation regulations, you must use the City of Boise’s interactive GIS map, which is updated regularly to reflect ordinance changes and specific preservation designations.

Key facts

Official Verification Tool

The City of Boise maintains an interactive GIS map where you can search by address to see if a property falls within a designated historic district overlay.

Distinct Designations

The 'North End' and 'Expanded North End' are categorized as separate, distinct historic preservation districts in Boise's planning records, each with its own designation history.

Understanding Preservation Boundaries

It is important to distinguish between the 'North End' as a general neighborhood and the 'North End Historic District' as a legal designation. A property may be located in the North End neighborhood without being inside the specific historic preservation district. The legal boundaries are defined by ordinances that create overlays for historic preservation, and these overlays do not always follow simple block-by-block patterns.

How to Confirm Your Status

If you are planning to renovate, add to, or change the exterior of a structure, verifying your district status is essential. Do not rely on general neighborhood maps, as these often reflect community associations rather than legal zoning boundaries.

• Access the City of Boise's official GIS mapping portal to view the 'Historic Districts' layer.
• Enter your specific address to see if it resides within a protected preservation overlay.
• Check if your property is marked as 'contributing' or 'non-contributing' to the district, as this affects the review process for building permits.

Regulation and Compliance

Properties located within a designated historic district are subject to specific guidelines managed by the Boise Historic Preservation Commission. If you own a property within these boundaries, you may be required to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness for exterior work beyond basic maintenance. This process ensures that changes are compatible with the historic character of the district.

Common questions

Is the North End neighborhood the same as the North End Historic District?

No. The North End neighborhood is a broader geographic area, while the North End Historic District is a specific legal designation within that area. A home can be in the neighborhood but outside the historic district.

What if my property is in the 'Expanded North End' district?

The Expanded North End is a distinct historic district with its own set of guidelines and designation history. You must check the official city map to see which specific regulations apply to your property, as they may differ slightly from the original North End district.

Related Idaho questions

• How do I apply for a Certificate of Appropriateness in Boise?
• What is the difference between a contributing and non-contributing property?
• Are there other historic districts in Boise besides the North End?

Sources and verification

• City of Boise Historic Preservation Portal (cityofboise.org)
• City of Boise Interactive Historic Districts Map (arcgis.com)
• Learn more about Boundary Lines of the North End Historic District from cityofboise.maps.arcgis.com (cityofboise.maps.arcgis.com)