Historic-Cultural Monuments: Phoenix vs Surprise
How do historic-cultural monuments rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ?
Phoenix and Surprise have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
Phoenix Code Chapter 36-30 establishes Historic Preservation Landmark (HPL) designation for individual buildings of exceptional cultural, architectural, or historic significance, requiring property-owner consent and Council approval after Commission review.
View full Phoenix rules →Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Maricopa County Historic Preservation Office oversees county-owned historic properties, while Arizona State Parks Board administers the Arizona Register of Historic Places. Local landmark designations come from cities like Phoenix Historic Preservation Commission and Scottsdale HPC.
View full Surprise rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Surprise |
|---|---|---|
| Code section | Phoenix Code Section 36-30 | - |
| Owner consent | Required for designation | - |
| Approving body | City Council after Commission | - |
| Tax benefit | State property tax reclassification | - |
| State agency | - | Arizona SHPO |
| County office | - | Parks & Rec |
| Phoenix districts | - | 30+ designated |
| Demolition delay | - | 60-180 days |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
How do I get my Phoenix property designated HPL?
Submit a nomination to the Historic Preservation Office showing significance and integrity. Staff and the Commission evaluate it; Council holds a hearing. Owner consent is required throughout the process.
What tax breaks come with HPL status?
The Arizona State Historic Property Tax Reclassification reduces your assessment ratio significantly. Income-producing landmarks may also qualify for the federal 20% Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit on certified work.
Surprise FAQ
Does Maricopa County have a Historic Preservation Commission?
Not a regulatory commission. The county manages historic county-owned sites through Parks and Recreation. Regulatory landmarking happens through city HPCs like Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, and Tempe.
How do I get my home listed on the Arizona Register?
Apply through the State Historic Preservation Office at Arizona State Parks. Properties must be 50+ years old and meet integrity and significance criteria. Listing usually takes 6-12 months and requires owner consent.
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