Certificate of Appropriateness (Historic Preservation): Miami restaurant guide

City of Miami — Historic & Environmental Preservation Board (HEPB)

What it is

Approval for work on an individually designated historic property or in a historic district. A Standard COA is reviewed by staff; a Special COA goes to the HEPB.

When a restaurant needs it

Exterior alterations, signs, additions, demolition or new construction at a designated historic site or in a historic district.

How to apply

Consult the district preservation specialist, then submit the COA application through ePlan (ProjectDox) before or alongside the building permit.

Documents you’ll need

Plans and elevations
Photographs of existing conditions
Material specifications
Letter of intent

Fee

Varies — not listed on the City page.

Processing time

Standard COA: a few weeks (staff); Special COA: requires an HEPB hearing, often 2–4 months.

Renewal

One-time per project.

Who files

The owner or the owner's architect/representative applies.

Good to know

Check the 'Historic Preservation' and 'Historic Districts' layers in the City zoning map before you design storefront or signage changes.

Official source

City of Miami — repair or renovate a historic property · Determine if a property is historic

Get your personalized Miami permit plan

Answer a few questions about your space and get every permit in order, with a timeline, a cost range, walkthroughs, and every application filled in for you to sign with Open.

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.