Ten Steps to Designating a Local Historic Property

1.      Contact the Connecticut Commission on Culture & Tourism

In addition to substantial community dialogue about the feasibility and benefits of a Local Historic Property (LHP) designation, local advocates should meet with CCT staff for guidance.

2.      Form and Appoint the Study Committee (CGS, Section 7-147q (a))

The LHP Study Committee is appointed by the local legislative body or municipal officer, and includes five regular and three alternate members, all electors of the municipality.

3.      Prepare the Study Committee Report (CGS, Section 7-147q (b))

The Study Committee evaluates the historical and architectural significance of properties being considered and delineates proposed boundaries of historic properties.

4.      Submit the Study Committee Report for Initial Review (CGS, Section 7-147q (c))

The Study Committee submits a report and recommendations to the designated town planning and zoning authority and CCT.

5.      Amend or Revise the Study Committee Report (CGS, Section 7-147q (c))

The CCT and the designated planning and zoning authority have sixty-five days to submit comments.

6.      Invite Public Comment (CGS, Section 7-147 q (d) and (e))

After written notice is sent to property owners and two legal notices are posted in a local newspaper, the Study Committee holds a public hearing on the proposed LHP.

7.      Submit the Report and Recommendations (CGS, Section 7-147q (f))

The Study Committee submits a final report and recommendations to the local legislative body and the municipal clerk within sixty-five days of the public hearing.

8.      Allow Time for Comment by Property Owners (CGS, Section 7-147q (g))

Unless the owner submits a written notarized objection to the designation within thirty days of the public hearing, the Study Committee Report is referred to the local legislative body.

9.      Refer Report to Legislative Body of the Municipality for Action (CGS, Section 7-147q (g))

Unless persons holding 50 percent or more of ownership interest in the proposed property object, the legislative body may (a) accept the report and enact the ordinance, (b) reject the report, or (c) return it to the Study Committee for revision.

10.   Implement the Ordinance (CGS, Section 7-147b (j) and 7-147q (h))

The local Historic Property Commission (HPC) is appointed by the local legislative body, and a copy of the ordinance is entered into local land records and indexed by the municipal clerk.

The following sections relate to the ten steps above. They provide further insight into the rules and requirements governing each step, as well as advice on each phase of the process.