Preservation & Landmarks FAQs

​​Definition of a Historic Landmark 

Designated historic landmarks are properties recognized for their significance to a community, city, state, or nation. Local and regional resources include:  

• Seattle Landmarks Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 25.12)  

• Tacoma Landmarks and Preservation Link 

• King County Landmarks Program

The Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation DAHP) has many useful resources for people interested in preservation. 

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Historic Property Reviews 

Laws and ordinances have changed recently, and some potentially historic properties may now require review while others may not. We can assess your property and advise whether preservation planning or review is needed. 

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Landmarks Criteria 

Eligibility depends on jurisdiction, but eligible sites generally must have significant character, interest, or value and retain the integrity to convey that significance. Age requirements and specific criteria vary for example, National Register and Tacoma landmarks typically require 50+ years, while Seattle’s threshold is 25 years. 

Common criteria include: 

• Association with a significant historic event or person 

• Importance to cultural, political, or economic history 

• Distinctive architectural style, period, or construction method 

• Outstanding work by a designer or builder 

• A recognizable feature that contributes to a neighborhood’s or city’s identity 

For details specific to Seattle, Tacoma, King County, or Washington State, check out the agencies’ resources or contact us — we’re happy to discuss your property. 

 

Landmark Property Changes

Contrary to what many assume, landmarked properties can be altered — the key is understanding the specific restrictions tied to your property's designation. Working with a Landmarks Board or Commission doesn't have to be an uphill battle. But without a background in historic preservation, it can be hard to decode why a jurisdiction requires certain documentation, or why reviewers are asking you to rethink elements of your design. 

That's exactly where Studio TJP comes in. We guide our clients through the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Historic Preservation, and we help you understand the reasoning behind commission requests — so nothing comes as a surprise. We speak the language of preservation. We speak the language of design and development. And we bridge the two, guiding you clearly and confidently through every step of the process.

 

​Landmark or Historic Property Incentives 

Designated historic sites may qualify for financial and regulatory benefits when alterations are reviewed and approved by the local Landmarks Board or Commission: 

• Property tax relief for approved major alterations 

• Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) benefits in certain Seattle areas 

• Greater flexibility in applying building and life-safety codes 

• Federal Historic Tax Credits for eligible National Register sites 

Interested in incentives? Contact Ellen—this is one of her specialties. 

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Local Landmarks 

More landmarks are designated every month.  

• City of Seattle Landmarks here.

• Tacoma Landmarks here.  

• King County Landmarks here.​