Planning Exterior Improvements? Know the Rules in Our Conservation Districts
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Greenland Hills is one of Dallas’s most cherished historic neighborhoods, and its timeless character is protected by the M Streets Conservation District (CD 9). If you’re considering any updates to your home’s exterior—or even changes to certain elements on your lot—it’s important to understand the required review process before getting started.
When a Conservation District Work Review Is Required
Any work that changes the exterior appearance of a home in Greenland Hills may require a Conservation District Work Review (CDWR). This includes projects that don’t need a building permit but still affect the home’s appearance. The CDWR is a completely separate process from a building permit and is handled electronically by the City of Dallas Planning & Urban Design staff.
Any work that changes the exterior appearance of a home in Greenland Hills may require a Conservation District Work Review (CDWR). This includes projects that don’t need a building permit but still affect the home’s appearance. The CDWR is a completely separate process from a building permit and is handled electronically by the City of Dallas Planning & Urban Design staff.
Homeowners can find the application by visiting the “About Us” section of the Planning & Urban Design webpage, then following the link to Project Dox to submit materials for review.
Examples of Work That Requires Approval:
- Building or replacing a fence
- Altering the “waterfall steps” from sidewalk to front door
- Installing a new roof
- Replacing windows or doors
- Changing hardscape in front yards
- Altering or replacing the driveway
- Enclosing or opening a porch
- Painting the home’s exterior
- Modifying brick or stonework
- Adding, replacing, or altering a garage
- Demolishing a home
Even routine updates, such as painting or replacing materials with similar styles, require CDWR approval.
Why the Process Matters
The review process ensures that improvements maintain the architectural integrity and cohesive look that give Greenland Hills its charm. Even if your plans meet all guidelines, work must be approved before it begins.
The review process ensures that improvements maintain the architectural integrity and cohesive look that give Greenland Hills its charm. Even if your plans meet all guidelines, work must be approved before it begins.
Penalties for Skipping Approval
Undertaking work without the required CDWR can be costly—violations carry fines of up to $2,000 per day, per offense. Code Compliance, a department of the City of Dallas, is responsible for enforcing these guidelines.
Undertaking work without the required CDWR can be costly—violations carry fines of up to $2,000 per day, per offense. Code Compliance, a department of the City of Dallas, is responsible for enforcing these guidelines.
Where to Learn More
For detailed information about the M Streets Conservation District Plan 9, visit mstreets.org. Taking the time to understand and follow these rules not only protects you from costly penalties but also helps preserve the unique character that makes our neighborhood special.
For detailed information about the M Streets Conservation District Plan 9, visit mstreets.org. Taking the time to understand and follow these rules not only protects you from costly penalties but also helps preserve the unique character that makes our neighborhood special.
SIDEBAR CHECKLIST
Before You Start Any Exterior Work in Greenland Hills:
Before You Start Any Exterior Work in Greenland Hills:
- Review the Guidelines – Read the M Streets Conservation District Plan 9 at mstreets.org.
- Determine if Approval Is Needed – If the project changes your home’s exterior in any way, assume it needs CDWR approval.
- Submit Your Application – Go to the City of Dallas Planning & Urban Design page, find Project Dox, and complete the online submission.
- Wait for Approval – Do not begin work until you receive written confirmation.
- Keep Records – Save all approvals in case of future property sales or inspections.