Design Review Guidelines
The City of Bessemer, through the Bessemer Historic Commission and its Building and Inspection Services Department, works with property owners to improve the appearance of downtown buildings.
These guidelines cover such topics as: treatment of masonry, appearance of storefronts, window systems, metal trim and downspouts, awnings and canopies, exterior paint color, and signage. A local ordinance has also established guidelines for use in new construction projects and in the demolition of existing properties.
In 2001, the city's historic commission, in association with the Bessemer Development Board and the State of Alabama's Historical Commission, published a booklet entitled Design Review Guidelines by Ray Morris. Copies of this book are available free-of-charge (while supplies last) by contacting the city's Building and Inspection Services Department at 205.424.4060.