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SUBJECTSPLANNING › Historic Preservation
Updated 5/07

Historic Preservation

Contents

Introduction

Local city and county heritage programs in Washington State, similar to other historic preservation programs across the country, emerged following the adoption of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (Public Law 89-665, 16 U.S.C. sec. 470 et seq.) This act is the key statute that defines present federal and state historic preservation programs. It established the National Register of Historic Places and authorized National Historic Landmark listings.

The Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP) in Olympia provides expertise, services and training for the protection and preservation of Washington's historic places, including the efforts of local government agencies. This department also processes nominations to the National Register of Historic Places and provides technical assistance in implementing the Special Valuation Program, a local option state property tax incentive program. To qualify for special valuation, rehabilitation must comply with the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation. DAHP administers the Certified Local Government (CLG) program, which recognizes and supports local historic preservation programs that meet federal and state standards.

Among its 13 goals, Washington's Growth Management Act (GMA) includes a goal to "Identify and encourage the preservation of lands, sites, and structures that have historical, cultural, and archaeological significance." RCW 36.70A.020 (13) Although the GMA does not require an historic preservation or cultural resources element in a comprehensive plan, cities and counties planning under the GMA must consider and incorporate the historic preservation goal.

Local governments are certified by the State Historic Preservation Officer when they have established their own historic preservation commission and a program meeting federal and state standards under the National Historic Preservation Act. The National Historic Preservation Amendments Act of 1980 (P.L. 96-515) contains the legal basis for the Certified Local Governments (CLG) program.  For information about CLGs in Washington State, contact the Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation at (360) 586-3074. As of 2006, 38 cities and counties in Washington State were CLGs.

Reference Sources

Documents

Contacts