About the Board of Architectural Review

The Board of Architectural Review’s (BAR) primary responsibility is to review applications for Certificates of Appropriateness (COAs) for projects in the Old and Historic District (map), Gateway District, and H-2 Corridor (proffered properties only). The BAR reviews exterior alteration and new construction applications for projects ranging from small garages and sheds to residential additions and multi-building commercial developments. Members are appointed for their interest in the Town’s history and historic resources, as well as their relevant professional expertise. With backgrounds in architecture, real estate, historic preservation, construction, building conservation, and the law, the BAR is well-qualified to review and approve projects and to advise the Town Council on preservation issues.

Due to recent attempts with other jurisdictions, this note has been added to the Town of Leesburg's Board of Architectural Review page: Fees will only be paid through the Town's eTRAKiT portal - wiring money will never be required of applicants, and money will only ever be collected in advance of scheduling a meeting for BAR public hearing. 

Board of Architectural Review 2024 Annual Report

Board Members

Group Email Address: BAR@leesburgva.gov (This email address is for public comment on active cases only.  Please email general submission questions to staff and submit application documents through eTRAKiT).

To submit your Certificate of Appropriateness application electronically, please file your application materials through eTRAKiT. 

Board Documents

• Agendas, Staff Reports & Minutes
• Board of Architectural Review Member Disclosures
• Webcasts
• Annual Reports
• 2026 Meeting Schedule

Please note that the Town of Leesburg uses Laserfiche, a third-party application, as its online agenda packet repository. Access to the documents in Laserfiche requires the use of a modern web browser such as Chrome, Firefox or Edge.

About the Design Review Process

Preservation staff assist applicants and BAR members throughout the design review process. Staff administratively approves applications for installing or replacing fences, paving driveways, adding landscape lighting, or changing an exterior paint color schemes. For larger projects, staff members work with applicants through the BAR review process to obtain the necessary approvals. For information about the permitting process for signs, exterior alterations, new construction or relocation of structures, please contact a member of the Preservation staff, listed below.