Landmark Designation

• Eligible for tax incentives.
• Protects historic buildings and potential historic landmarks from hasty demolition.
• Encourages better design through a comprehensive review by HDRC commissioners, OHP staff, and the public.
• Studies have shown that historically designated neighborhoods retain their value at a greater rate compared to neighborhoods that are not designated.
• Increases neighborhood pride and awareness.
• Provides a good tool for neighborhood revitalization.
• Protects the investment of owners and residents of historic properties from incompatible development.
• Local districts can benefit from heritage tourism. A historic district that is aesthetically cohesive and well promoted can be a community attraction and an economic generator.

Will designation affect the use of my property?

No. Historic designation has no impact on the use of the property. The property's zoning will continue to inform how the property can be used.

Does designation require the property owner to restore the property to historic conditions?

No. Historic designation does not automatically require any work or improvements to be made to the property. Following designation, if the property owner elects to perform exterior work to the property, the exterior scopes of work will require review and approval by the Office of Historic Preservation. Certain scopes of work and proposed work that is not consistent with the Historic Design Guidelines will require review and approval by the Historic and Design Review Commission (HDRC).

Will my taxes increase?

Not necessarily. Historic designation alone does not increase taxes. Property taxes are based on the assessed valuation (property value) of the land plus the improvements on the land. Historic designation may add to the desirability of a neighborhood, resulting in increased real estate market activity, which could be reflected in higher assessed valuations by the Bexar County Appraisal District.

Will the HDRC tell me what color to paint my house?

No, the City's Historic Design Guidelines do not limit paint color selection. Requests to paint the exterior of the structure are reviewed to verify that the material requested to be painted is appropriate (wood siding is appropriate for painting, whereas painting historically unpainted brick or masonry can accelerate material deterioration).

Are grants available to fix my home?

No, the City of San Antonio does not offer a grant program for private property. However, there is a tax incentive available for substantial rehabilitation that could result in local property tax savings. The Conservation Society of San Antonio, a local non-profit, also provides annual grants on a limited basis.

For more information about historic designation requirements, review our Before Getting Started page.