Design Review Ordinance Update

About the Project

Freeport’s Design Review Ordinance (PDF) is part of the review process for new construction, additions, and renovations in Downtown Freeport. The Design Review Ordinance was created to help ensure Freeport’s valued historic buildings are preserved, and that new construction fits in Downtown. 

The Town of Freeport is currently working on an update to the Design Review Ordinance to add more clear and specific regulations, and images and graphics. These updates will incorporate the community’s vision for Downtown Freeport and will make it easier for property owners and the Project Review Board to use the ordinance.

How does a Design Review Ordinance work?

A design review ordinance encourages the preservation of existing historic buildings and ensures that new buildings are designed to be compatible with historic buildings and the overall neighborhood. To accomplish this, the design review ordinance includes required standards about what a building and site look like. These standards include the size, shape, and proportion of a building. They also include building design features like windows and doors, materials, and facades. The design standards also include site design features to make a property attractive and welcoming, including landscaping, walkability, and public spaces.

Project Timeline

This project is led by a team of planning and design consultants in partnership with Freeport staff. The team will work on ordinance drafting this fall, informed by public feedback and meetings with the Planning Board and Project Review Board. A draft ordinance will be completed in early 2025.