Definition of Historic Designations

National Historic Districts comprise a group of buildings, properties or sites that have been designated by one of several entities on different levels as historically or architecturally significant.  Buildings, structures, objects and sites within a historic district are normally divided into two categories, contributing and non-contributing.  Districts greatly vary in size, some having hundreds of structures while others have just a few.  Federally designated historic districts are administered under the auspices of the National Park Service and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The National Register of Historic Places is administered by the National Park Service and is the official federal list of districts, sites, buildings, structures and objects significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering and culture.  National Register properties have significance to the history of their community, state or the nation.  A professional review board in each state considers each property proposed for listing and makes a recommendation on its eligibility.  More Information about the National Register.

Local Historic Landmark designations apply to individual buildings, structures, sites, areas, or objects which are studied by the local Historic Preservation Commission and judged to have historical, architectural, archaeological or cultural value.  Designation is an honor, meaning the community believes the property deserves recognition and protection.  The local government designates landmarks through passage of a local ordinance.  Owners of landmarks are eligible to apply for an annual property tax deferral as long as the property’s important historic features are maintained.  Recapture penalties may apply if the owner destroys the property or damages its historic value.   List of Local Historic Landmarks.    More Information can be found on the City of Bellingham website.