Berwyn, IL Historic Preservation: Historic-Cultural Monuments (2026)

Landmark designation in the City of Berwyn, Illinois runs through Chapter 1478 and ends with an ordinance. Section 1478.04(D) says all properties must be designated by ordinance upon the approval of the City Council to be deemed local historic landmarks. Anyone can start the process. A nomination goes to the Berwyn Historic Preservation Commission on its form, with the owner's name and address, the legal description, a written statement of reasons, photographs, and a $500 fee that is waived if the Commission submits the nomination or waives it at its discretion (§ 1478.05(A)). If a majority of the Commission finds no likelihood that a criterion is met, it enters a formal denial, that denial is the final administrative decision, and eligibility cannot be reconsidered for at least one year unless the Commission waives the wait for new evidence.

A preliminary finding of likelihood triggers a designation hearing within 45 days. Owners of record get written notice at least 15 days ahead, along with an Owner(s) of Record Statement of Position form. An owner who does not return the form is presumed to support designation, and can rebut that by testifying in opposition at the hearing (§ 1478.06). The Commission measures the property against the eight criteria in § 1478.04, from significance in the city's architectural, cultural, economic, historic or social development to National Register listing, and it must also find integrity of location, design, material and workmanship.

Within 45 days after the hearing the Commission decides, and a recommendation needs an affirmative vote of a majority of the full Commission. The Council then has 60 days. If it does not vote in that window, the nomination is deemed expired and considered denied, though the nominator or Commission can renew within 30 days, up to three consecutive renewed resolutions. Once the Council designates, the city files a certified copy of the ordinance with the Recorder of Deeds or Registrar of Title, and any designation can be amended or rescinded by the same procedure.