Historic Preservation Commission

The City of Lake Forest Historic Preservation Commission was established in 1997 as a continuation of the City's long tradition of taking proactive steps to preserve the historic character of Lake Forest. The Commission is made up of seven Lake Forest residents who are appointed by the Mayor, with the approval of the City Council. The Commissioners serve for a maximum of three two-year terms on a staggered basis.  The Commission is governed by the Historic Preservation Ordinance.

The Commission is responsible for carrying on the tradition in Lake Forest by preserving historic buildings, gardens and streetscapes as well as the overall historic character of the community. The Commission reviews projects that are inside the boundaries of the City's Historic Districts and projects that affect individual Landmark properties located throughout the City. The Commission reviews proposals for complete and partial demolitions, for new construction and requests for Building Scale variances. The Commission is also responsible for reviewing and evaluating the design and compatibility of additions and alterations. Utilize the links on the right to learn more about the Historic Preservation Commission or download an application.

To determin if your upcoming project requires review by the Historic Preservation Commission, please contact Jen Baehr, Assitant Planner at 847-810-3520.

The Historic Preservation Commission meets regularly on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers on the second floor of City Hall, 220 E. Deerpath.  The * indicated below in the approved meeting schedule is a change in the normally scheduled meeting. Meetings dates are subject to change from the approved schedule. Please check the Public Meeting Schedule for up to date information on the upcoming meetings.

To submit an application for Historic Preservation Commission consideration, click here.

You will be prompted to login to the submittal website.  If you have not registered yet, please contact Carolynn Gaylord at 847.810.3521 to receive registration information.  If you have questions about the Historic Preservation Commission process please contact Jen Baehr, Assistant Planner at 847.810.3520.

2020 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting Schedule
(Submittal Deadline noted in parenthesis at 3:30pm)

January 22
(Submittal Deadline: December 13)

February 26
(Submittal Deadline: January 24)

March 18*
(Submittal Deadline: February 14)

April 22
(Submittal Deadline: March 13)

May 27
(Submittal Deadline: April 17)

June 24
(Submittal Deadline: May 22)

July 22
(Submittal Deadline: June 19)

August 26
(Submittal Deadline: July 17)

September 23
(Submittal Deadline: August 14)

October 28
(Submittal Deadline: Sepember 18)

November 18*
(Submittal Deadline: October 9)

No December Meeting
 

Historic Preservation Commission Members