SALT LAKE CITY HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION

The Historic Landmark Commission (HLC) reviews all applications for landmark sites, demolition and new construction within locally-designated historic districts. They do not review interior work or exterior paint color, only exterior alterations. The majority of the projects presented to the HLC are either approved as submitted or with modifications.

Types of Historic Districts

A historic district is a geographic area with a concentration of older buildings and sites unified by development, events or design. In Salt Lake City, most of the historic districts are considered significant because of their association with the development of the city.

Map of National and Local Historic Districts

Historic districts can be listed on the National Register of Historic Places or locally designated. Individual buildings or sites can be listed on the National Register or listed locally on the Salt Lake City Register of Cultural Resources. Both designations recognize and encourage the protection of historic properties, but they are very different. The distinctions between the two are listed below:

National Register of Historic Places Nation's official list of historic architectural and archaeological resources worthy of preservation. Established by the 1966 National Historic Preservation Act which outlined federal listing criteria. Administered by the Utah State Historic Preservation Office (801) 533-3500. Offers no protection to historic properties, unless federal funding is involved. There are no restrictions that come with National Register designation. Federal and state income tax credits available for renovation of historic properties

Local Designation on Salt Lake City Register of Cultural Resources Salt Lake City Council designates local historic districts and local landmark sites upon a recommendation from the Salt Lake City Historic Landmark Commission and Planning Commission. Administered by the Salt Lake City Planning Division (801) 535-7757. The Salt Lake City Historic Landmark Commission can deny demolition of properties within the historic districts or individually designated properties. Requires review and approval for new construction and changes to the exterior appearance of buildings and sites within local districts. No financial incentives available.

The Salt Lake City Planning Division supports the listing of individual properties and districts on the National Register of Historic Places because of the substantial tax incentives available. Districts or sites listed that are locally designated carry the burden of regulation for the property owners, and thus are considered for designation with great care and study.