Is all of South Tampa historic?

No, only specific designated areas are historic districts requiring Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) review. Hyde Park is the largest and most well-known historic district in South Tampa, with strict preservation requirements. Beach Park and portions of Virginia Park are also locally designated. Many desirable South Tampa neighborhoods like Palma Ceia, Sunset Park, and portions of Davis Islands are not locally designated historic districts, though some may be eligible for or listed on the National Register. Before purchasing or renovating, verify whether your specific property is within a locally designated district by checking with Tampa's Historic Preservation Office or reviewing the official district maps.

Can I add onto my historic home in Hyde Park?

Yes, additions are possible in Hyde Park and other historic districts when designed appropriately. Key requirements include: the addition must be subordinate to the original structure in scale and prominence, it should be located at the rear or least visible side of the property, materials should be compatible with but distinguishable from the original, and no character-defining features can be removed. The most successful additions use a 'link' element (like a small connector section) to separate new from old. Large additions that double or triple the home's size face greater scrutiny than modest expansions. Working with an architect experienced in historic properties significantly improves approval chances.

What colors can I paint my historic home?

Color selection in historic districts must be appropriate to the architectural style and era. Hyde Park provides an approved color palette as guidance, though exact colors aren't mandated. General principles: Victorian-era homes can use more vibrant, multi-color schemes; Mediterranean Revival typically uses earth tones, white, or cream; Craftsman bungalows favor natural, muted colors; Colonial Revival is typically white, cream, or soft traditional colors. Staff-level approval is often possible for painting in appropriate colors, while unusual color choices may require ARC review. Never paint previously unpainted masonry (brick, stone), as this is generally prohibited. When in doubt, research historic color schemes for your specific architectural style.

Can I replace my windows with impact-resistant glass?

Window replacement in historic districts requires careful consideration. The preferred approach is repairing original windows and adding interior storm windows with impact-resistant glass. If replacement is necessary, new windows must match the original in: material (wood strongly preferred; aluminum-clad may be acceptable), design and profile, proportions and pane configuration, operation type (double-hung, casement, etc.). Full vinyl replacement windows are typically not approved. Impact-resistant glass can be installed in approved replacement windows. Documenting window deterioration thoroughly helps justify replacement over repair. Some districts now accept high-quality fiberglass windows that replicate wood profiles.

How do historic requirements affect home values in South Tampa?

Historic district designation generally has a positive effect on property values in South Tampa. Hyde Park properties typically command premiums of 10-20% compared to similar non-designated properties. Benefits include: architectural character protection that maintains neighborhood appeal, prevented mansionization that could overwhelm modest neighbors, maintained streetscape consistency, and prestige associated with historic designation. The requirements can add renovation costs due to material specifications and approval processes, but most owners find the investment worthwhile. The key is factoring COA requirements into your renovation budget and timeline from the start. Working with contractors experienced in historic properties helps manage both costs and expectations.

What happens to non-contributing structures in historic districts?

Non-contributing structures are buildings within historic districts that don't contribute to the district's historic character—typically due to age (built after the period of significance), extensive alterations, or incompatible design. These structures still require COA review for exterior changes, but the standards are different: there's more flexibility for alterations since the building doesn't have historic character to protect, demolition may be approved more readily, and new construction is expected to be compatible with district character even if the existing structure isn't. If you're purchasing a non-contributing property, you have more renovation flexibility than with contributing structures, but you're still subject to design review for any exterior changes visible from public ways.

Back to Historic Home Renovation

South Tampa Historic Districts Guide

Your comprehensive guide to renovating in Hyde Park, Beach Park, and South Tampa's other historic neighborhoods. Understand the requirements, architectural styles, and approval process.

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South Tampa Historic Districts

Each district has unique characteristics and review requirements.

Hyde Park Historic District

Est. 1985 (Local), 1985 (National Register)Roughly Bayshore to Rome, Kennedy to Bay-to-Bay~850 contributing structures

Strictest - Full ARC review required

Architectural Styles

Colonial RevivalMediterranean RevivalCraftsman BungalowQueen AnnePrairie School

District Characteristics

Tree-lined brick streets
Consistent setbacks
Mix of grand homes and cottages
Historic street lighting

Beach Park Historic District

Est. 1998 (Local)West of Bayshore near Gandy area~120 contributing structures

Moderate - Staff approval possible for minor work

Architectural Styles

Mediterranean RevivalMinimal TraditionalFrame Vernacular

District Characteristics

Modest scale homes
Waterfront proximity
Original platting intact
Narrow lots typical

Palma Ceia

Est. Not locally designated (but National Register eligible)Along Bayshore south of SwannVaries

Standard permits - No COA required (unless individually designated)

Architectural Styles

Mediterranean RevivalColonial RevivalSpanish Eclectic

District Characteristics

Larger estate lots
Golf course proximity
High-end construction
Mature landscaping

Virginia Park

Est. Partial historic designationNear Henderson/Swann~100 in designated area

Moderate - Varies by specific location

Architectural Styles

Craftsman BungalowFrame VernacularColonial Revival

District Characteristics

Working class origins
Modest bungalows
Original lot sizes intact
Mix of renovated and original

South Tampa Architectural Styles

Understanding your home's style is essential for appropriate renovation.

Mediterranean Revival

1915-1940

Key Features

Stucco exterior walls
Red clay barrel tile roof
Arched windows and doorways
Wrought iron balconies/details
Courtyards and loggias

Renovation Notes

Original stucco texture must be matched; barrel tile roof replacement requires same profile; window replacements must maintain arch proportions

Colonial Revival

1890-1940

Key Features

Symmetrical facade
Columned entry portico
Double-hung sash windows
Side gabled or hipped roof
Dentil molding and classical details

Renovation Notes

Window proportions critical; columns must match original style; additions typically at rear to preserve symmetry

Craftsman Bungalow

1905-1930

Key Features

Low-pitched roof with wide eaves
Exposed rafter tails
Tapered porch columns
Built-in cabinetry interior
Natural wood elements

Renovation Notes

Porch columns and brackets character-defining; wood siding restoration preferred; exposed rafter tails must be maintained

Queen Anne

1880-1910

Key Features

Asymmetrical facade
Wraparound porch
Decorative shingles
Bay windows and turrets
Spindle work details

Renovation Notes

Complex woodwork requires skilled craftsmen; paint colors should reference Victorian palettes; porch restoration highest priority

Frame Vernacular

1890-1940

Key Features

Simple rectangular form
Wood lap siding
Full-width front porch
Double-hung windows
Metal or shingle roof

Renovation Notes

Original siding should be repaired not replaced; porch proportions important; additions should be subordinate to original

Element-by-Element Guidelines

Specific requirements for common renovation elements in historic districts.

Windows

Repair original windows when possible
Replacement must match original material, design, proportion
Wood preferred; aluminum clad acceptable in some cases
Vinyl windows typically not approved
Storm windows must not obscure historic character

Tip: Document window condition thoroughly; specify exact replacement specs

Roofing

Match original material and profile
Barrel tile must match existing pattern
Architectural shingles may substitute for original 3-tab
Metal roofs require specific approval
No skylights on primary facades

Tip: Save samples of original roofing for matching; consider salvage tile

Siding & Stucco

Repair original materials when feasible
Replacement siding must match profile exactly
Stucco texture must be matched
Synthetic stucco (EIFS) typically not approved
Painting historic masonry not recommended

Tip: Create mockup samples for approval; document original textures photographically

Additions

Must be subordinate to original structure
Set back from primary facade
Compatible but distinguishable materials
Preserve significant rear elements
Cannot obscure character-defining features

Tip: Place additions at rear; connect with hyphen/link element when possible

Porches

Critical character-defining feature
Original columns, railings, flooring preserved
Enclosure generally not permitted
Screen enclosure may be approved if recessed
Ceiling material and height maintained

Tip: Porches are often the most scrutinized element; restoration preferred over replacement

HVAC & Mechanical

Equipment not visible from street
Condenser screening required if visible
Window units not permitted on primary facades
Ductless mini-split heads require concealment plan
Preserve original wall/ceiling integrity

Tip: Plan mechanical locations early in design; rear or side placement preferred

Design Review Process

Navigate the approval process step by step.

Pre-Design Research

1-2 weeks

Verify historic district boundaries and designation

Obtain district design guidelines

Research original construction documents if available

Photograph existing conditions thoroughly

Pre-Application Consultation

1-2 weeks

Schedule meeting with Historic Preservation staff

Present preliminary concepts

Identify potential concerns early

Understand submission requirements

Application Preparation

2-4 weeks (depends on project complexity)

Complete COA application form

Prepare architectural drawings

Compile material specifications

Gather supporting documentation

Staff Review

2-4 weeks

Submit complete application package

Staff reviews for completeness

May request additional information

Staff determines review level needed

ARC Hearing (if required)

Next available meeting (monthly)

Application scheduled for monthly meeting

Applicant presentation recommended

Board discussion and questions

Decision: approve, deny, or continue

Post-Approval

Building permit timeline varies

Receive COA certificate

Apply for building permit

Proceed with construction

Final inspection verifies compliance

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning a South Tampa Historic Renovation?

FCS specializes in historic renovations throughout South Tampa. From Hyde Park to Beach Park, we understand the requirements and work with you to create beautiful, compliant improvements.

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Explore Our Services

Historic Restoration Services SHPO Compliance Historic Tax Credits Historic Material Sourcing Schedule a Consultation

South Tampa Historic Districts Guide

South Tampa Historic Districts

Hyde Park Historic District

Architectural Styles

District Characteristics

Beach Park Historic District

Architectural Styles

District Characteristics

Palma Ceia

Architectural Styles

District Characteristics

Virginia Park

Architectural Styles

District Characteristics

South Tampa Architectural Styles

Mediterranean Revival

Key Features

Renovation Notes

Colonial Revival

Key Features

Renovation Notes

Craftsman Bungalow

Key Features

Renovation Notes

Queen Anne

Key Features

Renovation Notes

Frame Vernacular

Key Features

Renovation Notes

Element-by-Element Guidelines

Windows

Roofing

Siding & Stucco

Additions

Porches

HVAC & Mechanical

Design Review Process

Pre-Design Research

Pre-Application Consultation

Application Preparation

Staff Review

ARC Hearing (if required)

Post-Approval

Frequently Asked Questions

Is all of South Tampa historic?

Can I add onto my historic home in Hyde Park?

What colors can I paint my historic home?

Can I replace my windows with impact-resistant glass?

How do historic requirements affect home values in South Tampa?

What happens to non-contributing structures in historic districts?

Related Historic Renovation Resources

Hyde Park Detailed Guide

COA Application Guide

Sourcing Historic Materials

Planning a South Tampa Historic Renovation?

Related Articles

Tampa Historic Restoration Permits and Regulations

Preserving Tampa's Cultural Heritage

Architectural Styles in Tampa's Historic Restoration

Historic Tax Credits for Commercial Buildings

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