Lakewood, WA Historic Preservation: Historic-Cultural Monuments (2026)

48 of the Lakewood Municipal Code sets the criteria and process for designating a Lakewood landmark or community landmark. 040(A), a resource must be more than 50 years old (or, for a district, contain resources over 50 years old) and possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling and association, plus meet at least one of five tests: association with significant historic events, association with significant persons, distinctive design or construction characteristics, potential to yield important historical information, or status as an outstanding work of a designer or builder.

040(C), subject to listed exceptions. 050; the Historic Preservation Officer (the Planning and Public Works Director or designee) reviews the nomination and sets a hearing no less than 30 and no more than 45 calendar days after mailed notice, published at least 10 days in advance. 060, the department issues a written designation report within 14 calendar days of its decision, and the City Council, as final approving authority, must act within 30 to 60 days of the department's recommendation. 070, whether or not a building permit is otherwise required; ordinary repairs that do not alter appearance or use substitute materials are exempt.

There are three certificate types: Type I (in-kind restorations, decided administratively), Type II (appearance alterations, replacement materials, new construction) and Type III (demolition, moving, archaeological excavation), the latter two requiring a hearing within 45 calendar days of filing. 080 lets an owner argue economic hardship, requiring five years of income, expense and appraisal data before the department may approve an otherwise-denied alteration.