Questions and Answers About Landmark Designation

Prepared by Freehold Township Historic Preservation Commission-2004

1. Historic Preservation—“What’s in it for me?”
There is a growing market of homebuyers who appreciate historic architecture and who look for historic properties that are well maintained and have retained their historic integrity and architectural qualities. Historic Preservation regulation helps to improve the overall level of architectural quality in renovation projects, and this improvement influences the older building’s market values to the extent that it effectively maintains and improves the historic architectural qualities of designated properties through the review process.

2. Does landmark status provide me protection from the actions of municipal or other governmental agencies that may threaten my house or property?
Yes. Municipal actions, which would affect your property, would be reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission, which would act as a “check” against harmful undertakings by the Township or any other governmental agency.

3. Do the provisions of the ordinance apply only to my house or to my land and outbuildings as well?
The entire property, land and structures, are designated. However, in reviewing permit applications for the property, the Commission’s main concern will be the historic structures on the property.

4. Under what circumstances will my property be subject to the review process of the Commission?
Review by the Historic Preservation Commission is required before a permit can be issued for any of the following work: 1. Demolition 2. Relocation of Structures 3. Changes in the exterior appearance by alteration, addition, or new construction. 4. Site plan review or subdivision 5. Zoning variance requests 6. Proper upkeep of any Landmark Site must be maintained as per Preventative Maintenance Ordinance #0-01-23—June 2001

5. Will the Township regulate the exterior color of my structure?
Historic integrity must be maintained according to the “circa” (date/time frame) of the original construction of the building. The intent of the Commission is to encourage design that is compatible with the historic structure in scale, massing, materials and related features. As a Certified Local Government program we are bound by the U.S. Dept. of Interior “Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings”. Therefore, colors of any structure that has Landmark status must be compatible with its age.

6. What about the interior of my house?
The Freehold Township Ordinance does not apply to interiors of any structures, or to ordinary repairs and maintenance.

7. Is there an appeal process?
Yes. All Appeals of Commission decisions are made to the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

8. Does landmark status make me eligible to receive financial support or favored tax status?
If your house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places you may be eligible for Federal Tax Credits. Unfortunately, New Jersey State law does not currently enable municipalities to grant favored tax treatment (abatement, exemptions, etc.) to designated historic structures, however, there is a bill in the State Assembly (Assembly Environment Committee—Assembly, No. 1172) that may enable you to recoup some monies if your house is designated a Landmark Site. This bill has been in front of the Assembly since March of 2000 but has not as yet been enacted into law.

9. On what basis will the Commission make decisions regarding proposed additions or alterations to my property?
In reviewing all applications, the Commission must follow the review criteria contained within Freehold Township Ordinance No. 18-60 thru 18-66, Land Use Ordinances. The intent of the Commission is to encourage design that is compatible with the historic structure in scale, massing, materials and related features.