Amending Chapter 14-1000 of The Philadelphia Code, (entitled "Historic Preservation") to establish a temporary demolition moratorium with respect to properties in the area of Ridge Avenue between Wissahickon Creek and Northwestern Avenue; all under certain terms and conditions.

THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA HEREBY ORDAINS:

SECTION 1. Chapter 14-1000 of The Philadelphia Code is amended to read as follows:

CHAPTER 14-1000. HISTORIC PRESERVATION.

§ 14-1009. Demolition Moratorium Along Ridge Avenue.

(1) Definition. For purposes of this Section:

(a) "designated properties in the Ridge Avenue area" shall include the properties identified on the document attached as “Exhibit A” to the ordinance that added this provision to the Code.

(b) “total demolition” means removal or partial removal of structural elements for the purpose of removal of an entire structure.

(2) No total demolition of any building or other structure among the designated properties in the Ridge Avenue area shall be permitted, unless either: (a) such demolition is necessary to abate an imminently dangerous condition as determined by the Department of Licenses and Inspections; or (b) a permit for such demolition is obtained in accordance with the provisions of § 14-1005 (“Regulation”), applying those provisions as if the designated properties in the Ridge Avenue area constituted, collectively, a designated historic district.

(3) The Section 14-1009 shall expire at the earlier of: (a) 12 months after it became law; or (b) certification by the Historical Commission to the Chief Clerk of Council that it has mailed notice of the proposed historic designation of more than 25% of the properties among the designated properties in the Ridge Avenue area to the owners of such properties pursuant to Section 14-1004 (“Designation”).

SECTION 2. This Ordinance shall be effective upon adoption into law.

End