Reading HARB’s Mission: To exercise the functions, duties, responsibilities, and activities set forth in the City of Reading Historic District Ordinance.

The HARB is an advisory group committed to preserving key historic architectural features and character within the Historic Districts of Reading. 

To protect the historic features, the HARB must approve proposed changes to properties or buildings within certain historic districts and deem the alterations appropriate. Each change is assessed in order to ensure that it will enhance or preserve historic architecture and character of a neighborhood, as well as prevent the loss of irreplaceable features.  Architectural changes include new construction, demolition, exterior renovations, and signage that is visible from public rights of way such as streets and alleys.   

Historic Architectural Review Boards were authorized in Pennsylvania by the “Historic District Act,” Generally Assembly #167 of 1961, amended 1963. 

Refer to the ‘Regulated Districts’ section to see if your property requires approval from the Reading HARB for any exterior alterations.