Louisiana § RS 25:738 - Certificates of appropriateness

Full text of Louisiana Louisiana Civil Code § RS 25:738 — Certificates of appropriateness, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ RS 25:738. Certificates of appropriateness

A.  The historic preservation district shall hold a public hearing upon each application for a certificate of appropriateness affecting property under its control except in those instances where the commission has determined that the application for a certificate of appropriateness is not a substantive change and further that the commission has determined the certificate complies with standards adopted by said commission.  Notice of the time and place of said hearing shall be given by publication in the form of a legal advertisement appearing in the official journal of the governmental unit or in a newspaper having general circulation in the area served by the governmental unit, provided it has one, at least seven days before such hearing, and by the posting of such notice on or near the main entrance of any hall or room where the commission usually meets.  

B.  Within not more than forty-five days after the filing of an application the commission shall pass upon it, giving consideration to the factors set forth in R.S. 25:737(A) and (B), and shall give written notice of its decision to the applicant setting forth the reasons therefor.  Evidence of approval shall be by certificate of appropriateness issued by the commission, and whatever its decision, notice in writing shall be given to the applicant.  The commission shall keep a record of all applications for certificates of appropriateness and of all its doings under this Chapter.  

C.  No building permit shall be authorized by the governing body which affects a site or structure in the historic preservation district without a certificate of appropriateness except as otherwise permitted by the governing authority.  

D.  The commission shall have the right to make such recommendations for changes and modifications as it may deem to be necessary in order to enable the applicant to meet with its requirements.  

Acts 1970, No. 147, §8.  Amended by Acts 1975, No. 804, §8.  

Source: official Louisiana text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana § RS 25:738

What does Louisiana Civil Code § RS 25:738 cover?

Section RS 25:738 ("Certificates of appropriateness") is part of the Louisiana Civil Code, the codified statutory law of Louisiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Louisiana § RS 25:738?

A common citation format is "Louisiana Civil Code § RS 25:738" (Louisiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Louisiana law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Louisiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Louisiana attorney.

How does Louisiana § RS 25:738 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Louisiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Louisiana.