What Is BOZAR, and What Does the Historic District Mean for Crested Butte Homeowners?

The Board of Zoning and Architectural Review (BOZAR) reviews building, zoning and land use requests in the Town of Crested Butte, and most of town is a designated historic district, per Travel Crested Butte. You must get BOZAR approval before applying for a building permit, even for some minor exterior changes.

What is BOZAR?

According to the Town of Crested Butte, BOZAR is a seven-member board of local residents appointed by Town Council. It typically holds one public hearing a month and advises Council on zoning, land use, design review and historic preservation.

What needs BOZAR approval?

The Town lists minor exterior changes such as window or door replacements, historic rehabilitation, additions and new construction. Demolition or relocation of structures over 200 square feet has its own application. Other forms may apply if you are not the owner or an LLC owns the property.

How does the process work?

Per the Town: you submit a Development Permit Application, a Design Review Committee (two BOZAR members and a Town staff member) reviews it against the Design Guidelines, public notice runs in the Crested Butte News, and BOZAR holds a hearing on the last Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. Formally reviewed projects take at least two months, so build that into your timeline.

Who do I contact?

The Community Development Department, 507 Maroon Ave, 970-349-5338 ext. 121, planning@crestedbutte-co.gov. Hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., per the Town.

What should buyers ask?

• Is the home in the historic district?
• Were past changes approved, and are permits on file?
• What changes do I want to make, and will they need review?
• How long will review take relative to my plans?
• Are there demolition limits on the property?

What is the bottom line?

If you are buying in town, factor design review into your timeline and budget. Talk to the Town early, and ask your agent to check permits on any home you consider.

What is BOZAR in Crested Butte?

The Board of Zoning and Architectural Review, which reviews building and land use requests.

Do I need approval to replace windows?

The Town lists window and door replacements among projects that need BOZAR approval. Confirm with the Town.

How long does review take?

At least two months for formally reviewed projects, per the Town.

Does this apply in Mt. Crested Butte?

No. Mt. Crested Butte has its own codes.

Connect with a great real estate agent in Crested Butte, Kelsey Loftis with Crystal Peak Properties. Phone: (970) 784-6768 · Email: kelseyloftis@gmail.com · Website: crystalpeakproperties.com