HISTORIC PRESERVATION

• Houston History Association’s Guide to Researching Your Neighborhood History
• Houston Heights Named "Best Old House Neighborhood" by the PBS Program, This Old House's Website
• HAHC Meetings - Minutes - Decisions
• Houston Heights Historic District Design Guide
• Historic District Design Guide
• Historic Properties Pending Designation

Established in 1836 by Augusts C. Allen and John J. Allen, the City of Houston has grown from a small town of 2,000 citizens to a diverse and vibrant city with a population of over 2 million.

Since its inception, Houston has encountered various transformations and undergone many changes, all of which can be recognized today through our remaining historic structures. In 1995, City Council adopted Houston’s Historic Preservation Ordinance, in an effort to preserve these important reminders of our past.

Through this ordinance, the City of Houston offers several types of ways to help maintain Houston’s architectural history. Landmark and Protected Landmark designations allow for both recognition and protection of individual historic structures; while Historic District designations help neighborhoods by classifying a specific area of a community as historically and significantly important.

Charged with administering the ordinance is the Houston Archaeological and Historical Commission (HAHC). The HAHC is responsible for reviewing and nominating all designations as well as Certificates of Appropriateness (COA), a process required for all projects that seek to alter the exterior appearance of a city designated historic property.

Preserving and protecting our historic structures allows us to retain a tangible connection to our past as well as act as an inspiration for future progress. Preserving Houston’s valuable historic resources helps in boosting civic pride, economic prosperity and gives residents as well as visitors a visible reminder of our significant culture and heritage.

For more information, feel free to contact us for assistance.