Historic Preservation Commission

Purpose:

The HPC's purpose is to safeguard the heritage of the Town of Kure Beach (“Town”) by preserving important elements of its culture, history, and architecture and by promoting the use and conservation of the District for the education, pleasure and enrichment of the residents of the Town, the region, and the State. To find out about the HPC's powers, duties, organization, etc. please see Chapter 12 (12.03.040).

The HPC is composed of seven Kure Beach residents (required to live within the corporate limits of the Town) who have a knowledge and interest in historic preservation. The HPC is appointed by the Town Council. The HPC reviews and regulates changes to the exterior appearance of buildings in the Historic District.

Historic District:

The Kure Beach Downtown Preservation District is a four-block area that represents a mix of commercial and residential structures and contains the oldest buildings in the Town. The District is the Town’s only commercial district (e.g., beach-oriented hotels, shops, and restaurants) and retains a character that is reflective and reminiscent of a 1940s-1970s coastal community. Also located within the District are several public beach access points, the Town boardwalk, and the Town’s beachfront park and pavilion. The Town’s only stop-lighted intersection (Fort Fisher Blvd and K Avenue) and the oldest fishing pier on the Atlantic coast (originally built in 1923) are also sited within the District. The Design Standards for the Kure Beach Historic District was developed in 2021. The purpose of the Design standards is to address changes to the exterior features of buildings and structures within the District and are intended to assist property owners and the Town in determining whether the proposed changes are consistent and harmonious with the District’s neighborhood.

Application for a COA and payment of the associated fee shall be made to the Town’s Buildings Inspection Department no later than thirty (30) days before the date of the next regularly scheduled HPC meeting.