How Philadelphia Handles Historic Preservation: A Practical Guide

Philadelphia maintains 250 local ordinances across all categories, and 2 of those deal specifically with historic preservation. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Philadelphia falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

HPOZ Rules

Philadelphia Code section 14-1004 governs Historic Districts and individually designated buildings on the Philadelphia Register. Exterior alterations, demolition, and new construction within designated districts need Philadelphia Historical Commission review, with appeals to the Board of License and Inspection Review.

Key details: Code citation: Phila Code 14-1004. Lead body: Historical Commission. Standards: Secretary of Interior. Appeal: L and I Review Board.

Unauthorized alterations or demolition draw stop-work orders under Code 14-1004(7), civil penalties up to two thousand dollars per day, mandatory restoration to prior condition, and Licenses and Inspections refusal to issue future permits until cured.

This is one of the stricter rules in Philadelphia's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

Historic-Cultural Monuments

The Philadelphia Historical Commission individually designates buildings, sites, structures, and objects under Code 14-1004(3). Designation places the property on the Philadelphia Register, requires Commission approval for changes, and may unlock the federal historic-rehabilitation tax credit and Pennsylvania Historic Preservation Tax Credit.

Key details: Authority: Phila Code 14-1004(3). Criteria: Ten lettered standards. Federal credit: 20 percent rehabilitation. PA credit: 25 percent under 72 P.S. 8902-C.

Damaging or removing designated objects without Commission approval triggers code-enforcement actions, civil penalties up to two thousand dollars per day under 14-1004(7), and possible criminal mischief charges under 18 Pa.C.S. section 3304 if intentional.

The Bottom Line

Philadelphia's historic preservation rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Philadelphia is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Philadelphia's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.