Cook County Historic Preservation Ordinance Chapter 102 Article VI authorizes individual Landmark designation for properties of architectural, historical, or cultural significance in unincorporated Cook. The Cook County Historic Preservation Commission reviews nominations and recommends designation to the County Board.
Sec. 102-296 et seq. allows nomination of properties at least 50 years old that meet criteria including significant association with persons or events, distinctive architecture, or work of a master architect. Owner consent is required for individual Landmark designation under current Cook County practice. Once designated, all exterior changes visible from public right-of-way require a Certificate of Appropriateness. Designated owners may qualify for Class L property tax incentive freezing assessment for 12 years if rehabilitation exceeds 50 percent of base value. Commission staff sit within the Department of Planning and Development.
Altering designated Landmarks without Commission approval triggers stop-work orders and fines up to $1,000 per day. Loss of Class L tax benefit for non-compliant work. Demolition triggers the 180-day stay process.
See how Arlington Heights's historic-cultural monuments rules stack up against other locations.
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