Murfreesboro, TN Historic Preservation: Historic-Cultural Monuments (2026)
Key Facts
- Overseeing body
- Historic Zoning Commission (9 members)
- Permit trigger
- construction, alteration, demolition, moving
- Max penalty
- $50 fine or 90 days jail
- Legal basis
- T.C.A. § 13-7-401
Summary
Murfreesboro's H-1 Historic District overlay requires Historic Zoning Commission approval before any building permit for construction, alteration, demolition, or moving of a structure within a designated historic district.
It is the intent of this district to preserve the historic sites and structures of the City. The requirements of the district are designed to protect and preserve historic and/or architectural value; create an aesthetic atmosphere; strengthen the economy; protect and enhance the City's attractions to tourists and visitors and the support and stimulus to business and industry thereby provided; and promote education and patriotic heritage of the present and future citizens of the community. In order to achieve the intent of the H-1 Historic District, as shown on the official zoning map of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, the following regulations shall apply.
(B) Use regulations. (1) Any use permitted by the underlying zoning classifications is also permitted by the H-1 Historic District. (2) The H-1 District classification may be superimposed in addition to existing zoning classification where the following criteria shall be determined to exist by the Historic Zoning Commission.
The quality of significance in American history, architecture, archeology, and culture is present in districts, sites, buildings, and structures that possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association, and: (a) that are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 18 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
The H-1 Historic District overlay, layered on top of a property's base zoning, protects historic sites and structures citywide. No building permit for construction, major alteration, rehabilitation, moving, or demolition inside an H-1 district may be issued until the Historic Zoning Commission reviews and approves it in writing. The nine-member Commission, appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by City Council, evaluates architectural compatibility, materials, and historic value before the Chief Building Official can issue a permit.
Violations & Fines
Working without Historic Zoning Commission approval is enforceable by injunction; violators face a fine of $2 to $50 or up to 90 days in jail, with each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the H-1 overlay replace my property's underlying zoning?
Who decides if my renovation is appropriate?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Murfreesboro
Compare Murfreesboro to another location·View the Tennessee historic preservation overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.