Stewarding a historic neighborhood safeguards the architectural character, cultural heritage, & shared identity of a community—ensuring its stories, craftsmanship, & sense of place endure for future generations.
Who determines if a neighborhood is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places?
The Texas Historical Commission, in coordination with the National Park Service, determines a district’s eligibility for historic designation after a 1–2 year process of surveying, research, & application drafting by a qualified consultant.
What qualifies a neighborhood for listing on the National Register of Historic Places?
A neighborhood must meet specific criteria related to its age, integrity, & significance. Generally, buildings & structures should be at least 50 years old. The neighborhood must still convey its historic character, with a certain percentage of “contributing” properties. The neighborhood must hold historical, architectural, & cultural importance on a local, state, or national level.
Are there any benefits for a neighborhood or property owners from having a National Register Historic District designation?
Will historic designation cause my property value to go up?
Studies across the U.S. have shown that historic designation can help stabilize or increase property values over time. Buyers are often drawn to well-maintained, historically significant neighborhoods. Historic districts age well because changes are more deliberate & thoughtful, thus properties tend to retain their character & appeal.
Designation encourages neighborhood-wide standards, which help prevent unpredictable development or incompatible new construction. Finally, there is a finite number of historic homes, especially in desirable urban areas, which often drives long-term value.
Can I qualify for a tax credit if my property does not have an individual historic designation but is in a historically designated neighborhood district?
Buildings that are deemed contributing to an existing NRHD by THC are likely eligible for state and/or federal historic tax credits. The building would not need to be listed individually in the National Register to qualify.
The building will need to meet other qualifications, dependent on the type of tax credit the owner is seeking. Please refer to the Texas Historic Commission for tax credit details.
What is the timeframe for the proposed historic district to be reviewed?
The application started in August of 2024. The Determination of Eligibility for the proposed district was approved in April 2025. With financial support, the application could be reviewed by the Texas Historic Commission as early as spring 2026.
Pursuing a historic designation from the National Register of Historic Places offers the following tangible & intangible benefits.
Planning & Protection
Financial Incentives
Economic & Development Impact
Tourism & Business: May encourage heritage tourism, local business development, & creative reuse of historic structures.
Preservation Support
Documentation: Comprehensive historical documentation helps future generations understand the neighborhood’s legacy.
Recognition & Prestige
Cultural Significance: Validates the neighborhood’s historical, architectural, & cultural importance.
Community Identity: Fosters pride & strengthens community bond around a shared heritage.
Is this the same as a local historic district?
No. A NRHD is a federal designation that recognizes the area’s historic significance and can qualify properties for tax incentives. It does not place restrictions on what homeowners can do with their properties.
A City of Austin Local Historic District provides city-level protections and Historic Landmark Commission oversight for exterior changes, demolitions, and new construction to maintain the neighborhood’s historic character.
What are the boundaries of the proposed Judges Hill District?
Will this limit what I can do with my home or property?
No. National Register designation does not impose restrictions on private property. Owners can still renovate, paint, landscape, sell, rent, or even demolish their homes—subject only to standard city permitting.
There is no design review or approval required for private projects unless federal or state funding, permits, or tax incentives are involved.
How can property owners support the National Register Historic District [NRHD] initiative?
Donate: Financial support toward the application & consultant’s fee is a strong demonstration of support.
Submit a Letter of Support: A simple statement showing your support helps demonstrate community buy-in, which strengthens the nomination.
Attend public meetings: Stay informed, ask questions, & show support during community discussions & hearings.
Share your home’s history: If you have old photos, documents, or stories about your property or the neighborhood, we would love to learn more.
Spread the word: Encourage neighbors to learn more, get involved, and support the effort.