C.M.R. 18, 134, ch. 1, § 134-1-5, subsec. 134-1-5-2
All projects in the Capitol Area must comply with the design requirements set forth herein, and be developed in a manner reflective of their spirit and intent.
The Capitol Area is divided into eight types of zones, as indicated on the Capitol Area Map. Design standards and guidelines for building and site construction are provided for each zone.
Standards are used to determine the appropriateness of proposals for adding new buildings or site development within the zone. Meeting the applicable standards for each zone is a requirement for approval of any project by the Capitol Planning Commission.
Guidelines, also provided for each zone in a separate document titled Guidelines for the Design of Projects in the Capitol Area, are more general design and technical recommendations that are meant to help applicants apply the standards. It includes information to assure that such projects take into account the character-defining features of each zone.
Guidelines should be considered recommendations, whereas standards should be considered requirements.
C.M.R. 18, 134, ch. 1, § 134-1-5, subsec. 134-1-5-2