Historic Resource Designation
Application Checklist:
Historic resource designation aims to preserve districts and landmarks that reflect elements of the City’s cultural, social, economic, political, engineering, visual, or architectural history. See UDC Section 50-37.8 for more information.
Starting the Application Process
Submit your application materials by the application deadline, four weeks prior to an HPC meeting. HPC meetings are held the second Tuesday of the month.
Your Application
- Visit www.duluthmn.gov/eplace to submit your application.
- Click on “Apply” and search for your application type. (You will need to sign in to the system, or create a new account if you do not already have one.)
- Follow the prompts to fill in information. Required information is indicated with an asterisk.
- On the attachments page, upload the following:
- Nomination form and any documentation
- After your application is complete, click “Add to Cart” for the fee listed, and pay the fee. Applications without a fee will not be reviewed or accepted.
After Submitting Your Application
1. Determination of Completeness. Within 15 business days of your application, you should expect to:
- Receive an “Applicant Letter,” which acknowledges a complete application, shares the date of the HPC meeting and the assigned staff person, and notifies you of State‐mandated deadlines for the City to make a decision OR
- Receive notification that your application is incomplete, with details on further information to submit.
2. Public Notice.
A mail notice will be sent by the City to property owners within 350 feet of the subject property.
3. Heritage Preservation Commission Hearing.
The HPC will review the application, send it to Planning Commission for their review and recommendation, conduct a public hearing, and forward a recommendation to City Council. You will be notified when an HPC hearing is scheduled for your application. We ask that applicants attend this meeting.
4. City Council Decision.
The Historic Preservation Commission recommendation will be forwarded to City Council in the form of an ordinance, which will require two readings. City Council will make a decision whether to approve the historic resource designation, approve it with modifications, or deny it. Planning staff will send notice of the Council action to the applicant.
5. Preservation Plan.
Historic landmarks and districts require a Preservation Plan. You will need to submit a Plan to the HPC for their approval. There is no fee for this process. Contact your assigned Planning Staff person if you need examples of Preservation Plans or guidance on this part of the process.
