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Home » Vieux Carré Commission » Topics » Design Guidelines
The Vieux Carré Commission Design Guidelines (Guidelines) are intended to be a guide for preserving and protecting the District's architectural and historical resources. The Guildlines provide informaiton and guidance to be followed by property owners, design professionals, contractors, VCC staff (also referred to as "staff"), the VCC Architectural Committee (AC) and the Commission with regard to all exterior changes to properties within the Vieux Carré Historic District, or French Quarter.
See the "Application Process" page for a full description of the permitting process as well as a helpful chart further outlining reviews required for each respective color rating.
Design Guidelines (Single document, 216 pages) 17.4 MB
01 - Guidelines Introduction 5.1 MB
02 - Building Types & Architectural Styles 16.2 MB
03 - Exterior Maintenance 7.4 MB
04 - Roofing 6.6 MB
05 - Exterior Woodwork 6.6 MB
06 - Masonry & Stucco 7.6 MB
07 - Windows & Doors 12.7 MB
08 - Balconies, Galleries & Porches 12.1 MB
09 - Exterior Painting 3.2 MB
10 - Site Elements & Courtyards 8.2 MB
11 - Lighting & Security Cameras 6.3 MB
12 - Signage & Awnings 10.9 MB
13 - Storefronts 9.7 MB
14 - New Construction, Additions & Demolitions 9.4 MB
15 - Appendix A: Glossary 707 kB
16 - Appendix B: Index 573 kB
In an effort to further streamline the permitting process, the VCC has compiled these “checklists” with information from our design guidelines specific to individual building types. Coupled with the “Guidelines Introduction Handout” these abbreviated checklists serve to provide direction towards a simplified and predictable permitting process. Additional information can be found in the full design guidelines on this page, as well.
Last updated: 12/9/2025 10:13:17 AM
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