Local vs. National Register
What is the difference?
What is a
Local
Historic District?
An area recognized as significant to the City's cultural fabric that is protected by local ordinances. The districts fall under the jurisdiction of local Design Review Boards. They deal with appearance, rather than property use.
What is a
National Register Historic District?
An officially recognized historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), reserved for locations that hold significant historical value and maintain a high level of historic integrity. Properties within these districts may qualify for tax benefits both at the state and federal levels. It does not require the same design review process as a local historic district.
Why designate a local district?
It protects significant properties and the historic character of an area. It provides communities with the means to make sure growth, development, and change take place in ways that respect the important architectural, historical, and environmental characteristics within a district.
Why designate a National Register district?
It acknowledges and documents the historical significance of the area. Additionally, it provides specific incentives for property owners and protects the area by requiring review of projects that are federally funded or require federal permits.
What are character defining features?
Character defining features aim to preserve the unique features that define both individual historic buildings and the surrounding district. These key features are the most noticeable and help to convey the historical significance of the building or district. The guidelines focus on maintaining these features while ensuring that any new construction or changes to existing buildings blend in seamlessly with the historical context of the district. Essentially, the overall goal of the guidelines is to preserve the character of the district and its individual historic resources.
