Questions and Answers about Historic Properties
Q: What is the National Register of Historic Places?
It is the official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation. The National Register is part of a national program administered by the National Park Service to identify and protect our historic and archeological resources. Properties listed in the National Register include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture. These resources contribute to an understanding of the historical and cultural foundations of the nation.
Q: What are the restrictions of listing?
Owners of private property listed in the National Register are free to maintain, manage, or dispose of their property as they choose provided no Federal monies are involved. There are no restrictions on what a listed property owner can do to their property. They can paint it, build an addition to it, or tear it down without asking anyone's permission.
Q: What are the benefits of listing?
Besides the pride of owning a nationally recognized historic property, owners may qualify for Federal grants for historic preservation when available. Properties listed in the National Register may be eligible for a 20% investment tax credit for the certified rehabilitation of income-producing certified historic structures such as commercial, industrial, or rental residential units.
Q: How do properties get listed in the National Register of Historic Places?
The properties are documented and evaluated according to uniform standards. Their State Historic Preservation Office nominates properties to the National Register. Private individuals or local historic preservation typically prepares state nomination forms commissions. A State review board makes a recommendation and, if approved, the nomination is forwarded to the National Park Service to be considered for listing. Generally, properties eligible for listing in the National Register must be at least 50 years old and represent the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction. Structures that have significant exterior alterations are ordinarily not eligible for listing.
Q: What is a historic district?
A historic district has been surveyed and the properties documented according to their historical, cultural, and architectural significance. It consists of contiguous properties that contribute to the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction.