Historic Preservation Commission
Chatham Borough’s Land Use Ordinance states well the purpose of this five-member commission:
“To recognize and preserve historic resources in the borough as an essential element of muncicipal character and identity which contributes to the reputation of Chatham Borough as a place of beauty and architectural value.”
Legally, the Historic Preservation Commission addresses its action to the Main Street Historic District that reaches from near Chatham’s eastern boundary to just short of Lafayette Avenue.
Historic buildings within the Historic District represent most aspects of Chatham’s history, beginning with the town’s founding in the mid-18th century. The eastern portion of the Historic District is listed in the New Jersey Register of Historic Places.
Development applications that come before the Planning Board or Zoning Board for properties within the district, are referred to the Historic Preservation Commission for its review and recommendations. However, the Historic Preservation Commission encourages early discussions with applicants before final plans are submitted.
Permit applications are also reviewed if they affect a property’s appearance.
Answers to questions regarding the history or architecture of a number of Chatham’s building and streets may be found in the Historic Preservation manual, available to the public at the reference desk of the Library of the Chathams.
The Historic Preservation Commission holds its meetings on the third Tuesday of each month at 7:30pm in the middle-level conference room of the Chatham Borough Municipal Building at 54 Fairmount Avenue, Chatham, NJ 07928.
