Historic Preservation Ordinances

The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission maintains a sample historic district ordinance based on the authorization established in the Historic District Act of 1961. Contact PHMC to learn more: Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission 400 North Street Harrisburg, PA 17120 Phone (717) 783-8946 Fax (717) 772-0920

Ordinance establishing a historic overlay district in Chadds Ford Township, PA.

The City of Lancaster's ordinance establishing a Heritage Conservation District per Act 167.

Historic districts and resource overlay ordinances

This is a menu of components to be used in preparation of local historic preservation ordinances. Each component is a model that can stand alone or be used in combination with one or all the other components. Each model component provides options for municipalities for administration.

Sample historic preservation ordinance to establish a clear process by which proposed land use changes affecting historic resources can be reviewed.

Sample historic resource protection standards ordinance.

Local municipal regulations can provide substantial protection to historic resources, preserving their contributions to cultural vitality and helping communities maintain quality of life.

Sample historic preservation regulations based on the Municipalities Planning Code

Ordinance establishing a historic district in Newtown Borough, PA.

This ordinance is merely a model and should only be used as a guide in developing your own ordinance. PSATS encourages you to review and discuss all proposed ordinances with your solicitor. Also, please understand that we cannot guarantee that this ordinance will withstand a court challenge.

Ordinance establishing a historic district in West Chester, PA.