Planning Commission

The Independence Planning Commission is a citizen board, appointed by the city council to help plan for growth and development within the city. Members of the planning commission advise the city council and city staff on a variety of subjects, making policy recommendations on important matters affecting the livability of Independence. The Commission also acts as a decision-maker for certain land use applications such as the review of subdivisions and larger land use applications.

Planning Commission meetings are always open to the public, and members of the community are welcome to share their thoughts about the issues being considered. The Independence Planning Commission meets on the first Monday of every month at 7:00 p.m. in the chambers at the Independence Civic Center. If the Monday is a legal holiday, the meeting is moved to the second Monday. If no business is scheduled or a quorum of Commissioners is not able to attend, the meeting may be canceled.

The Planning Commission is composed of seven members, no more than two of whom may be non-city residents. Planning Commission members are appointed to three-year terms.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Independence Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) works to:

  • Protect significant elements of Independence’s history.
  • Celebrate the accomplishments of the past.
  • Foster public appreciation and civic pride in the beauty of historic properties.
  • Enhance the visual character of the city.

The Independence Historic Preservation Commission also acts decision-maker for certain land use applications such as the review of new development within the Independence Historic District, additions to structures within the district, and alterations to historic structures. To find out whether Historic Preservation Commission review is required for a project, please contact Fred Evander at (503) 837-1168.

Altering a Property in the Historic District

Individuals that plan to construct or modify a structure within the Independence Historic District should contact the City of Independence. A review of the revisions may be necessary.

To find out the review process, please contact Fred Evander, Community Planner, at (503) 837-1168.

Historic review is not required:

  • When there is no change in the appearance or material composition of the existing structure.
  • When the repair or maintenance of the structure uses the same materials in the area being repaired.
  • For interior alterations.
  • For changes in paint color.

Alterations to the exterior of a structure, or removal or demolition of a historic resource, requires historic review when:

  • The home or business is located within the Independence Historic District.
  • The building is located outside the Historic District, but has been designated by the city as a historic landmark.

The Independence Historic Preservation Commission also reviews new construction within the Historic District.

To start the review process, please submit an Application to Certify Historic Appropriateness. Depending on the nature of the action, the property may require a public hearing before the Independence Historic Preservation Commission.

Removal of historic trees is also reviewed by the Commission.

Historic review is not required:

  • When there is no change in the appearance or material composition of the existing structure.
  • When the repair or maintenance of the structure uses the same materials in the area being repaired.
  • For interior alterations.
  • For changes in paint color.

About the Historic District

The Independence Historic District was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. At that time, the buildings within the Historic District were classified as contributing or non-contributing based on considerations including: the building age and style, the type and number of alterations, and the building materials. Architectural styles found within the district included Victorian, Gothic, Craftsman, Italianate, Spanish Colonial and more.

Click here for additional details about the district.