A Local Historic District is a geographic area that contains one or more properties or buildings that are worth preserving because of their historic merit. Local Historic Districts are not required to have restrictions; however, this would be determined during the petition process. Restrictions* can only be placed on exterior elements if they depict historical significance. The property owner(s) determine what restrictions they would like to see in place.

To establish a Historic Preservation-Overlay: District (i.e. Local Historic District) the petition is first reviewed by the City’s Historic Preservation Commission. Then an ordinance is created and forwarded to the Planning & Zoning Commission for a public hearing followed by a final approval with the Council.

*All restrictions should be determined before gathering signatures for a petition for the creation of a Local Historic District. This will allow property owners within the district full consideration before supporting the designation. Whatever elements chosen for restrictions can be reconsidered throughout the process, especially if historical research leads to conflicting findings.