Historic Preservation Division

Recently, there has been increased interest in using outdoor spaces in the Historic District for dining and commercial use. To provide guidance and support, the Historic Preservation Commission has been reviewing the existing guidelines which relate to outdoor furniture and fixtures. The commission has discussed potential changes in public meetings over the last several months. In the public meeting on 11 January 2022, the commission approved updates to the existing guidelines. The updated version is available below.

  1. Outdoor furniture and fixtures as approval 01.11.2022 (PDF)

Comments are welcome and may be submitted through the web form.  The commission will review the comments after 30 days and may update the guidelines as appropriate.

Click on the image to view the map

Annapolis Historic District Map

Schedule and Deadlines

  1. Historic Preservation Application Deadline and Meeting Dates 2023 (PDF)

HPC Guidelines

  1. Historic District Design Manual (PDF)

Applications

  1. Historic Preservation Certificate of Approval Revision Submittal Form (PDF)

Documents

  1. Historic District and National Register Boundary Map (PDF)
  2. Historic District Design Manual (PDF)
  3. Historic District Streets (PDF)
  4. Historic Preservation Application Deadline and Meeting Dates 2023 (PDF)
  5. Historic Preservation Commission By-Laws (PDF)
  6. Historic Preservation Sidewalk Cafe Furniture Guidelines (PDF)
  7. Historic Preservation Sign Guidelines (PDF)
  8. National Trust Names Historic City of Annapolis a National Treasure (PDF)
  9. Economic Hardship - Evidentiary Criteria (PDF)
  10. Historic Preservation Commission Rules of Procedure - February 17, 2021 (PDF)

BEST PRACTICES FOR MAINTAINING PROPERTY IN THE ANNAPOLIS HISTORIC DISTRICT 


ASK FIRST: use the technical expertise of the Preservation Division to assist you.

 APPLY EARLY: submit applications for review and approval before signing a contract or starting the work. 

DO NO HARM: preserve historic features by using accepted preservation practices.

The Historic Preservation Division has primary responsibility within the Planning & Zoning Department for reviewing exterior changes in the Annapolis Historic District, administering the tax credit program, providing support to the Historic Preservation Commission, and participating in Current Zoning Division reviews.

Also, we

  • provide technical assistance about general preservation practices and standards
  • evaluate drawings, construction materials, and techniques for code compliance
  • prepare staff reports for public hearings and site design review
  • coordinate archaeological monitoring in the Historic District
  • provide final review of exterior work proposed for building permits in the Historic District
  • identify violations and participate in mitigation for compliance
  • analyze zoning and other code changes affecting the Historic District
  • ensure compliance with the Certified Local Government program
  • negotiate contracts and coordinate the work of consultants providing services to the Division
  • represent the City on the Heritage Commission and the Four Rivers Heritage Area
  • review proposed changes to property owners seeking Federal funding under Section 106
  • comment on City initiatives affecting the Historic District
  • prepare publications to assist development planning in the Historic District
  • conduct research, prepare written material, and give presentations on Annapolis history and architecture for local colleges, universities. realtors, and community groups.