Historic Resources

The intent and purpose of Historic Resources is to celebrate and protect the City’s historic buildings and resources. The City and the County cooperate to provide a review body for alterations, remodels, and construction to designated historic landmarks and properties in the historic district.

The City is home to over 25 locally designated historic landmarks, the locally and nationally designated Willamette Historic District, and several properties that are individually listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

FAQs
Is my property historic?
Properties that are over 50 years of age can be considered “historic”. Properties that are designated by the City or have statewide significance must comply with additional regulations to maintain their character, history, and integrity.

Is my property part of a historic district or designated as a local landmark?
The City has over 25 local landmarks and over 60 properties that are part of the local and National Register Willamette Falls Neighborhood Historic District. In addition, there are several properties that are part of the local Willamette Historic District, but not the National Register district. Contact Planning staff at 722-5512 if you have questions.

What is the National Register?
The National Register of Historic Places is an official list (http://nrhp.focus.nps.gov/natreghome.do?searchtype=natreghome) of historic places that are worthy of preservation. More information is available on the National Register of Historic Places website.

What types of financial incentives/tax benefits are available for historic structures?
Owners of designated historic properties can apply for the Oregon Special Assessment of Historic Property program. This program allows for a “freeze” of property taxes for a 10-year period prior to a substantial rehabilitation. Most eligible properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The application for this program must be submitted BEFORE the rehabilitation work occurs on the property. Contact Planning staff at 722-5512 or check out Oregon Heritage for additional information.

Income producing properties built before 1936 that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places are also eligible for 10% or 20% Federal Tax Credits. Residential, commercial, and industrial buildings are eligible for the 20% Investment Tax Credit. Commercial and industrial buildings are eligible for the 10% Rehabilitation Tax Credit. Interior and exterior work may qualify for the tax credit. More information is available from staff and the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). All projects must be reviewed by the SHPO.

Are any restrictions placed on property owners?
Historic designation does not prevent property owners from completing ordinary maintenance and repair tasks. Review is required only for exterior improvements. “Minor” and “major” alterations (see explanation below) require the submittal of a Development Review Form. Minor alterations will be reviewed and approved by the Planning Director. Major alterations require review by the Historic Review

What is the difference between “maintenance” and “alterations”?
Ordinary maintenance and repair to a structure do not require city review. This includes painting previously painted structures. However, window replacement and repairs that use different materials require review. Contact the Building Department at 656-4211 to see if a building permit is required. Contact Planning staff at 722-5512 if you have any questions as to whether a project will require review.

What is a “minor” alteration? What is a “major” alteration?
Proposed work will be classified as “minor” or “major” alterations. Minor alterations are detailed in the Community Development Code and may include the repair and/or replacement of gutters, foundations, roofs, storm windows, wood window sashes, solar equipment, fences, pools, and accessory structures. The Planning Director will make the determination as to whether an alteration is minor or major. Minor alterations will be reviewed and approved by the Planning Director, who may consult with the Historic Review Board.

Work in addition to the items listed above, new construction, and additions will be considered major alterations. These will require Design Review by the Historic Review Board.

Contact Planning staff at 722-5512 for more information or to set up a pre-application meeting.

What standards does the Historic Review Board use to evaluate the applications?
Chapter 25: Historic District and Chapter 26: Historic Landmarks in the City’s Community Development Code establish the criteria and standards that the Historic Review Board uses. Contact Planning staff at 722-5512 with questions or for more information.

How does preservation relate to Goal 5?
Goal 5 of Oregon’s Statewide Planning Goals is to protect natural resources and conserve scenic and historic areas and open spaces. West Linn maintains an inventory of properties that are of historic significance in compliance with Goal 5.