How Does a Structure Become Designated as Historic?

Residents may apply to put their home on Belleair’s local Historic Registry by completing a Historic Designation Application and submitting it to the Town for approval by both the Historic Preservation Board and the Commission. To request an application form, contact Ashley Bernal, Assistant to the Town Manager, at (727) 588-3769 x 244, or abernal@townofbelleair.net.

In order to qualify for preservation, the nominated property, building, structure, or area must be at least 50 years old and embody at least one of the following criteria, to the discretion of the Historic Preservation Board:

1. Its character, interest or value as part of the development, heritage, or cultural characteristics of the town, county, state or nation
2. Its location as a site of significant local, county, state or national event
3. Its identification with a person or persons who significantly contributed to the development of the town, county, state or nation
4. Its embodiment of distinguishing characteristics of an architectural style valuable for the study of a period, type, method of construction or use of indigenous materials
5. Its identification as the work of a master builder, craftsman, designer, engineer, architect, landscape architect or planner whose individual work has influenced the development of the town, county, state or nation
6. Its embodiment of elements of design, detailing, materials or craftsmanship that render it architecturally significant
7. Its embodiment of design elements that make it structurally or architecturally innovative
8. Its unique location or singular physical characteristics that make it an established or familiar visual feature
9. Its suitability for preservation or restoration
10. Where the interior of a building or structure is designated, the designation shall include a finding designating the specific portions of the interior that make it suitable for designation and a finding that the interior is accessible to the public as a common area in the normal course of the building’s use

Frequently Asked Questions

Can A Historic Home Be Renovated?

Yes, historic homes may be renovated, and often are in order to meet modern standards. However, historic property owners must first receive approval for renovation via either a Standard Certificate of Appropriateness Application or a Special Certificate of Appropriateness Application to ensure that any renovations retain the historic integrity of the structure.

What Incentives Are Offered for Historic Properties?

Aside from a general increase in property value, owning a historic home can have its benefits. Primarily, the Town offers a tax abatement program for historic property owners who renovate their homes in ways that preserve and honor the property’s historic integrity.

Can I Remove My Home from the Historic Registry?

Yes, property owners may remove their homes from the Town’s historic register, and must complete a removal form and receive approval from the Historic Preservation Board and the Commission in order to do so.

How Can I Learn More About Historic Preservation?

Residents may contact Ashley Bernal, Assistant to the Town Manager, at (727) 588-3769 x 244 or email Ms. Bernal to request more information about historic preservation in Belleair.