Newark, OH Historic Preservation: Historic-Cultural Monuments (2026)

Chapter 1450 of the Newark Code of Ordinances is the City's landmark program. Section 1450.02(n) defines a local historic property as a building, structure, site or object with special character or special archaeological, historic or aesthetic value as part of the heritage or cultural characteristics of the City of Newark, the State of Ohio or the United States, designated under the chapter. Every local historic property also counts as a contributing property.

Section 1450.06 makes any building fifty years old or older with significant architectural features eligible. The Committee on Design and Preservation, with the consent of the owner or a majority of owners in a proposed district, recommends designations to City Council. Nine criteria guide it, including association with a significant event or person, embodiment of an architectural type, work of a master builder, and a unique location or singular physical characteristic. Before designating, the Committee notifies owners on the Licking County Auditor's tax list in writing and holds a public hearing, with notice published at least ten days ahead. It issues a written decision within fourteen days after the hearing, and Council begins the legislative process within fourteen days after receiving the recommendation.

The Committee has five members appointed by the Mayor to staggered three-year terms (Section 1450.03), meets not less than four times per year, and needs three members for a quorum (Section 1450.04).

After designation, Section 1450.07 requires a certificate of appropriateness before new construction, rehabilitation, demolition or any visible exterior change, including fences, signs, awnings, balconies, shutters and satellite dishes, and no zoning certificate or building permit issues without it. Normal maintenance and painting are excused. Applications go to the Administrator at least fifteen days before a Committee meeting (Section 1450.08), the hearing falls within sixty days, and an appeal goes to the Board of Zoning Appeals within thirty days, then to the Licking County Court of Common Pleas.

Separately, Section 1269.02 allows an Overlay Historic District for no fewer than six adjacent properties with owner petitions of 100 percent for six to ten properties and ninety percent above ten.