To preserve and protect the unique character of your neighborhood or house, you can pursue a variety of historic designations. In the city of Dallas, the type and number of historic designations are as follows:

• National Register of Historic Places: administered by the Texas Historical Commission and the National Park Service. Restricts rehabilitation of the site only if federal funds or tax incentives are used. Today there are 28 sites in Dallas County on the National Register including Dealey Plaza and all Dallas historic districts.
• City of Dallas Landmark Designation: administered by the City of Dallas through the Landmark Commission. Requires a Certificate of Appropriateness from the City for all changes to exterior appearance. There are currently 81 designated City of Dallas landmarks such as the Adolphus Hotel, the Magnolia Building and the Wales Apartments with another 12 sites currently under consideration.
• City of Dallas Historic or Landmark District: administered by the City of Dallas through the Landmark Commission. Historic Districts are defined areas with a significant concentration of structures unified by their architectural style or related historical events. Historic Districts must also be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A Certificate of Appropriateness from the City is required for all changes to exterior appearance. There are currently 18 historic districts in Dallas including Lake Cliff, the Sears Complex and Swiss Avenue.
• City of Dallas Conservation District: administered by the City of Dallas, Department of Planning and Development. Conservation Districts are a zoning tool that allows neighborhoods to establish exterior design criteria and other standards to preserve the character of an area. An ordinance is established for each conservation district that details the regulations homeowners must follow in any renovations or new construction.

Preservation Dallas has more information available on each of the above designations. Our knowledgeable staff members can help you decide what is the most appropriate designation for your neighborhood to pursue and help you get the process started. Call (214) 821-3290, email or visit Preservation Dallas at 2922 Swiss Avenue, Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. External