Perhaps nothing in preservation causes as much confusion as the National Register of Historic Places.
Does it prevent demolition? Does it protect buildings? Can you change your paint color? Do you get tax breaks? Can you get a grant?
This Preservation Primer answers many of the most frequently asked questions about the National Register.
The History & Scope of the National Register of Historic Places
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. The program was created in 1966 with the passage of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and is administered by the National Park Service (NPS), in partnership with state historic preservation offices (SHPOs). Together, they determine which properties are eligible and officially listed.
Signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on October 15, 1966, the NHPA established a comprehensive national policy for identifying, evaluating, and protecting America’s historic and cultural resources.
Since its inception, more than 96,000 individual properties and historic districts—representing over 1.9 million contributing resources—have been listed. These include buildings, sites, structures, objects, and districts across nearly every county in the United States.
Common Questions About the National Register
Does National Register listing place restrictions on my property?
No. One of the most common myths is that National Register designation automatically protects a property from alteration or demolition. It does not.
However, some local governments use National Register listings to inform local historic district boundaries or designation processes—these local designations may carry protective regulations.
How old must a building be to qualify?
In most cases, a property should be at least 50 years old and retain sufficient historic integrity to convey its significance. Exceptions are occasionally made for properties of exceptional importance.
Are there financial benefits to listing?
While listing itself does not provide direct funding or tax breaks, it is a prerequisite for many federal and state preservation programs, including:
- Federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credits (20%)
- Maryland Historic Revitalization Tax Credits
- Various grants and incentive programs administered by state and local preservation offices.
Listing can therefore be an essential first step in a preservation or rehabilitation project.
Can the federal government demolish a listed property?
Yes—but not without a process.
When federal funding, permitting, or licensing is involved, the Section 106 Review Process (established under the NHPA) requires agencies to consider the effects of their actions on historic properties and to provide opportunities for public input and mitigation.
What’s the difference between the National Register and a Local Historic District?
The National Register is primarily honorary and programmatic, recognizing significance and qualifying properties for incentives.
Local Historic Districts, established under local ordinances, offer the strongest protections—often requiring review and approval for exterior alterations or demolition.
In Maryland, many of the state’s most significant historic areas—like Annapolis, Frederick, and Ellicott City—benefit from both designations.
How to List a Property on the National Register
In Maryland, applications are submitted through the Maryland Historical Trust (MHT), the state’s SHPO.
MHT reviews documentation, determines eligibility, and—if appropriate—forwards nominations to the National Park Service for final approval and listing.
Finding Properties on the National Register
- National Park Service: Explore the National Register Database & Interactive Map
- Maryland Historical Trust: Use MHT’s Medusa Map to view National Register and Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties listings.
Preservation Maryland and its affiliates do not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon for tax, legal, or accounting decisions. Always consult qualified professionals before engaging in any financial or regulatory transaction.