Denver Historic District
Did you know you live in a Historic District?
Since 1967, Denver Landmark Preservation has been tasked with protecting, and ensuring the longevity and use of the city's historic and architectural treasures. In doing so, Landmark Preservation helps preserve the well-loved character of the city and its neighborhoods. The intention of Denver's preservation program is not to freeze buildings in time, but to facilitate their use, so that landmark and historic district properties don't become relics, but instead remain active places vital to the fabric of the city well into the future. Indeed, all Denver landmarks and districts provide a link to our past through their past owners, memorable events and architectural variety. They enrich our community by conveying a sense of continuity, identity and place, and they add architectural variety to the cityscape
Historic districts support neighborhood stability, uniqueness and variety — all attributes that contribute to the long-term desirability and vitality of Denver’s neighborhoods. Districts also contribute to the local economy, as areas that attract significant investment. On average, properties in historic districts have higher property values than those in undesignated neighborhoods, benefitting both individual property owners and the community’s tax base.
Do you have questions about living in a historic district or making changes to the outside of your house? Email the Denver Landmark Preservation Commission at landmark@denvergov.org.
Historic Designations
Denver’s local landmark designation program is a public process that recognizes properties of historical, architectural, geographical and cultural importance to the City and County of Denver. To be eligible for designation, a district or structure must maintain its integrity and meet three criteria of the possible ten.
Designation applications may be initiated by property owners, local residents and/or local business owners. Applications are reviewed by Landmark Preservation staff, the Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC) and ultimately by City Council, which makes the final decision on designation. LPC and City Council hold public hearings as part of their review. If a property is designated, City Council adopts a landmark designation ordinance, which is then recorded with the City Clerk.