In Houston's historic districts, including Houston Heights West, East and South, the City lists paint colors and paint on previously painted surfaces as exempt from historic preservation review. Painting brick or masonry that has never been painted is different: it is treated as an alteration that needs review. When in doubt, ask the City's Historic Preservation Office before work starts.
The three Heights historic districts
The City of Houston has designated three historic districts in the Heights: Houston Heights West, East and South. They do not cover the whole neighborhood, so check the city's district maps for your address. Inside a district, exterior alterations generally need a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) from the Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission, while ordinary maintenance and repair do not.
What is exempt: repainting
The City's exemption sheet for historic districts lists paint colors and paint on previously painted surfaces among the items that are not regulated. In practice, repainting wood siding, trim, porches and doors that are already painted does not need a COA, whatever color you choose. The Heights design guidelines still recommend traditional, harmonious palettes, but that is guidance, not a requirement.
What needs review: unpainted brick and original materials
- Unpainted brick or masonry: painting it for the first time is treated as an alteration and needs review. Removing paint from brick can also come up for review.
- Replacing siding, windows or doors: if the painter finds rotten wood, replacing original materials may need a COA even though painting does not.
- The commission has reviewed some paint-related cases on a case-by-case basis, so ask before anything unusual.
Before you hire a painter
- Confirm whether your address is inside a district.
- If the home was built before 1978, plan lead-safe work (see our Montrose guide on lead paint rules).
- For questions, the City's Historic Preservation Office lists 832-393-6556 and historicpreservation@houstontx.gov.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a COA to change my house color in the Heights?
Not for repainting surfaces that are already painted. The City lists paint colors and paint on previously painted surfaces as exempt.
Can I paint my brick in a Heights historic district?
Painting brick or masonry that has never been painted is treated as an alteration that needs review. Ask the Historic Preservation Office first.
Are all Heights homes in a historic district?
No. The three districts (West, East and South) cover part of the Heights. Check the city's district maps for your address.
Sources
- City of Houston — Exemptions in historic districts (PDF)
- City of Houston — Historic Preservation Manual
- City of Houston — Houston Heights West, East and South
- City of Houston — HAHC staff report, 540 Heights Blvd (2022)
Rules change. Confirm current requirements with the city or your association before starting work.
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