Harris County does not maintain its own cultural monument registry. Designations come through the Texas Historical Commission's Texas Historic Sites Atlas, including Recorded Texas Historic Landmarks, State Antiquities Landmarks, and National Register listings. Local protection is provided through the Harris County Historical Commission advisory board.
Texas Government Code Chapter 442 places historic site designation primarily with the Texas Historical Commission (THC). Properties in Harris County may be listed on the Texas Historic Sites Atlas as Recorded Texas Historic Landmarks (RTHL), State Antiquities Landmarks (SAL), Historic Texas Cemeteries, or on the National Register of Historic Places. RTHL designation requires THC review of any exterior changes within sixty days. SAL status, the strongest protection, prevents demolition without THC permit. Harris County Historical Commission, an advisory body, recommends markers and reviews county-owned property impacts. Inside Houston, the City Historic Preservation Office layers a separate landmark and historic district program on top of state designations.
Demolishing a State Antiquities Landmark without THC permit is a Class A misdemeanor under Government Code Chapter 442, with up to one year jail, $4,000 fine, mandatory restitution, and civil penalties up to $1,000 per day.
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See how Harris County's historic-cultural monuments rules stack up against other locations.
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