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Historic Property Alterations
Rockville reveres its historic roots and is committed to preserving the local history. To protect the historic homes and districts in Rockville, historic properties in need of exterior modifications must be reviewed and approved by the Historic District Commission.
Projects within a Historic District that generally require Historic District Commission review include:
- Additions and new construction
- Demolition of historic structures
- Major landscape modifications, including tree removal
Historic Preservation


sbashiri@rockvillemd.gov

Rockville, MD 20850

8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Historic Property Alteration Review Levels
The following review levels follow the same process, but are intended for different types of work
Staff Approval
Minor projects that have no significant historical impact and meet the adopted design guidelines, such as:
- fences,
- signage,
- mature tree removal,
- new small accessory structures (e.g. sheds)
The Chief of Planning determines whether such projects may receive a Certificate of Approval without Historic District Commission review.
Certificate of Approval
The Rockville Historic District Commission reviews the Certificate of Approval after determining that alterations are compliant. The Certificate of Approval process is distinct from other city permitting requirements and an applicant is responsible for receiving all other applicable building and use permits prior to construction. See Rockville Code Section 25.07.13 for more on the Certificate of Approval.
Historic District Review Process

Review the Guidelines for Alterations of Historic Structures
Review the requirements and guidelines for your planned work.U.S. Secretary of Interior Standards for Historic Rehabilitation | |
City of Rockville Technical Guides for Exterior Alterations | |

Request Historic Review
Before work begins on a structure within a historic district or any demolition, you must apply for historic review. To request a review, complete the application and submit it to the Historic Preservation office at Rockville City Hall, 111 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, MD 20850. You will receive notice of your application within 45 days.The Historic District Commission meets the third Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. Once the request is filed and approved, you will receive your review date.
