Hillsborough County, FL Historic Preservation: Historic-Cultural Monuments (2026)
Key Facts
- Reviewing body
- Historic Resources Review Board (HRRB)
- Age threshold
- 50 years old or older
- Final decision
- Board of County Commissioners
- Owner appeal window
- 3 days, via writ of certiorari
Summary
Unincorporated Hillsborough County designates historic and cultural landmarks through the Historic Resources Review Board, and owners of designated sites need a Certificate of Appropriateness before altering them.
A Landmark shall have achieved significance within the time period established by the National Register of Historic Places, which is 50 years old or older (An exception to the 50 year rule may be made if the resource is of Exceptional Importance or if it contributes to a district that is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places) and shall qualify for designation when it meets one or more of the following criteria. It:
1. Is associated in a significant way with the life of a person important in the past.
2. Is the site of an historic event with significant effect upon the community, state, or nation.
3. Exemplifies the historical, cultural, political, economic, or social trends of the community, state or nation.
4. Embodies those distinguishing characteristics of an architectural style, period or method of construction.
5. Is the work of an architect or builder whose work has influenced the development of the community, state or nation.
6. Contains elements of design, detail, materials or craftsmanship of outstanding quality or represents a significant innovation or adaptation to the Florida environ- ment or constructed of materials not now used.
7. Has value as a building that is recognized for the quality of its architecture and that
Full Breakdown
The county's Historic Resources Review Board (HRRB) evaluates properties against an 11-factor test: the site must generally be 50+ years old and tied to significant history, architecture, or archaeology. The Board of County Commissioners makes the final designation, recorded with the county's official records and Zoning Atlas. Once designated, a Landmark cannot be exteriorly altered, relocated, or demolished without a COA from the HRRB.
Violations & Fines
Exterior alteration, relocation, new construction, demolition, or landscaping changes to a designated Landmark without a COA violates LDC § 3.03.04 and is enforceable as a land-use code violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who decides if a property becomes a county Landmark?
Can I appeal a Landmark designation on my property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Hillsborough County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Hillsborough County to another location·View the Florida historic preservation overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.