Prince George's County Planning Department

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Historic Sites and Districts

How Historic Sites and Districts are created

In some cases, a property’s significance lies in its architectural style, historical or cultural associations or in its archeological features. It may also be noteworthy as the work of a highly skilled craftsman or as the site of an important event. Historic districts are established to protect and promote special areas of historic and architectural value. Districts evoke a special sense of time and place that contributes to the area’s unique identity. When a district is established, historic district regulations ensure that physical changes are consistent with each property’s individual character and the character of the district as a whole.

Through the county’s Historic Preservation Ordinance, the HPC can designate a property as a historic site if the property is listed in the county Inventory of Historic Resources and if it meets specific criteria of architectural or historical significance. Similarly, a group of historic properties sharing significance and proximity can be designated as a historic district. The process of designation involves the preparation of a research report documenting the history and architectural characteristics of the historic resource; this research may be initiated by the property owner or local citizens. The HPC then holds a public hearing to receive the comments of the residents and other interested parties and then makes a decision. The County Council hears appeals of the commission’s decisions on designations.