MEDIA ADVISORY

Mayor: Jennifer P. Dougherty

CONTACT: Nancy Poss, Public Information Officer, 301-360-3842
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, March 19, 2004

SATELLITE DISH REQUIREMENTS IN FREDERICK'S HISTORIC DISTRICT

Frederick, Md.--- The City of Frederick's Historic District Commission would like to remind residents of the regulations as they relate to satellite dishes in the downtown area. The City has specific guidelines that must be followed in order to comply with the published Frederick Town Historic District Design Guidelines.

Guideline's relating to Mechanical Equipment, including satellite dishes, are as follows:
· Rooftop mechanical units, television and radio antennae and satellite dishes, should be installed in such as manner as to not be visible from the public way.
· If rooftop mechanical equipment cannot be installed so that its not visible from sight lines from the street, they should be screened from view, using appropriate materials that are compatible with the Historic District.
· The mechanical equipment should be installed in such a manner that will not destroy or damage a building's character-defining elements or façade details.
· Electrical, telephone and cable service should be placed underground whenever possible. If this is not an option, they should be placed on side or rear elevations.
· Air conditioning window units are discouraged. Instead, a/c units should be placed to the side or the rear of the building and screened with fencing and landscaping.

The HDC Guidelines can be found on the City's website at www.cityoffrederick.com .

If you would like any additional information or have questions regarding this matter please contact Barbara Wyatt, City of Frederick Historic Preservation Planner, 301-600-7092.