| Listing Historic Districts in the National Register |
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| Before You Begin A Nomination For A Historic District |
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Oakland Historic District
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Is it Eligible?
A historic district is an area or neighborhood that has a concentration of buildings and associated landscape and streetscape features that are at least 50 years of age or older. To be eligible for the National Register the district must maintain its historic appearance and be associated with an important aspect of the area’s history. Consult with staff to ensure that your potential historic district meets these minimum requirements, and to receive valuable information on how best to complete the nomination process.
Before beginning a historic district nomination, submit a Preliminary Eligibility Evaluation (PEE) to the office. The form asks advocates to briefly describe the district and why it is eligible for the National Register, and to submit photographs. Submissions can be made in person, or by regular mail or email. SHPO staff will answer these requests within two weeks. Using the standards established by the National Park Service and the information provided in the PEE, staff will give their opinion on the district's eligibility for the National Register and remark on potential research strategies. Included in the response will be useful information about the National Register and how to complete the documentation.
To start the National Register process complete the Preliminary Eligibility Evaluation form (PEE) for historic districts.
Although it is possible for an interested individual or group to nominate a historic district, the office suggests that professional historic preservation consultants prepare district nominations. Historic district nominations are often multi-year projects requiring specialized knowledge of local history, architecture, and National Register documentation. Professionals should submit a PEE before beginning work on a potential historic district.
What Does Listing Mean?
The State Historic Preservation Office and the federal government do not regulate private property unless the owner chooses to take advantage of federal and state tax incentives or grants. However, local county and city governments are required by state law to protect properties listed in the National Register. Because regulations vary from place to place, property owners or those looking to purchase listed properties should contact their local planning office.
More Information
National Register Web Page - Oregon SHPO webpage that describes what the National Register is and how the registration process works.
Historic District Fact Sheet - Oregon SHPO document Describes what property owners need to know about historic districts and their rights and responsibilities.
National Register Benefits and Responsibilities Web Page - Oregon SHPO web page that describes the various programs available to property owners with National Register-listed properties and applicable land-use laws.
Grants Web Page - Oregon SHPO web page describing the many grant opportunities available to the owners of National Register-listed properties and other cultural resources and institutions.
Tax Incentives Web Page - Oregon SHPO web page describing tax benefit programs for National Register-listed properties.
Professional Consultant List - Oregon SHPO document listing contractors offering various services from repair of historic buildings to the preparation of National Register nominations.
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| Completing the National Register Form for Historic Districts |
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Oregon State University Historic District
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The National Register nomination form is a technical federal planning document that has specific requirements that must be met. Staff can assist preparers as needed in completing these forms; however, the office does not write nominations for property owners.
Proper documentation for a historic district includes a completed National Register form, including Sections 1 through 10; photographs, photograph continuation sheet, and photograph location map; a completed database for the potential district, and accompanying property and statistical reports; and district map. All documentation must meet the requirements specified by the National Park Service and the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office.
The following documents and guides include all the necessary instructions for completing the National Register form. The example nomination in National Register Bulletin 16A, "How to Complete the National Register Registration Form," does not meet current standards. Please contact the office if you would like an example nomination.
Instructions
Guidelines for Conducting Historic Resource Surveys in Oregon – Oregon SHPO document with instructions for completing Reconnaissance and Intensive Level Surveys for documenting Historic Districts.
Preparing National Register Nominations in Oregon - Oregon SHPO document that provides specific instructions for preparing National Register nominations in Oregon. The publication includes details about the state process and deadlines.
National Register Bulletin #15, "How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation" - National Park Service publication that explains in detail under what circumstances a property will or will not be eligible or the National Register of Historic Places.
National Register Bullitin #16, "How to Complete the National Register Form" - National Park Service publication that includes step-by-Step instructions for completing National Register documentation.
National Register Bulletins and Brochures Page - Instructions and tips from the National Park Service on specific property types, such as those related to aviation, maritime, railroad history, and others. Check to see if your property has specific instructions.
National Register Photo Policy - National Park Service brochure that explains the specific requirements for photographic documentation.
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