Anne Arundel County, MD Historic Preservation: Historic-Cultural Monuments (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum age
- At least 65 years old
- Credit rate
- 25% of qualified rehab expenses
- Program cap
- $50,000 over five years
- Application deadline
- Due by April 1
- Preservation requirement
- Perpetual preservation easement required
Summary
Anne Arundel County certifies structures and districts at least 65 years old as 'Anne Arundel County historic landmarks,' granting a five-year property tax credit in exchange for a perpetual preservation easement recorded against the property.
"Anne Arundel County historic landmark" means a structure or historic district that is at least 65 years old; has a particularly high level of historical significance and integrity; is representative of the County's history, architecture, archeology, engineering or culture; and possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling or association.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-93: County Code is current through May, 2026).
Full Breakdown
County Code § 4-2-312 lets the Office of Planning and Zoning certify a structure or historic district as an 'Anne Arundel County historic landmark' if it is at least 65 years old, has high historical integrity, and meets criteria such as association with significant events or people, distinctive architecture, or National Register eligibility. Owners must grant the County a perpetual preservation easement and apply to the Controller by April 1. The credit equals 25% of qualified rehabilitation expenses (residential or income-producing) or 5% for compatible infill construction, capped at $50,000 over five years. Structures in the City of Annapolis, which certifies its own landmarks, are excluded.
Violations & Fines
Altering the structure so it no longer meets landmark standards, or violating the easement terms, terminates the credit and the owner must repay the full amount plus interest and penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this credit apply to properties in Annapolis?
What happens if I alter a certified landmark after getting the credit?
Who decides whether a property qualifies as a historic landmark?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Anne Arundel County
Compare Anne Arundel County to another location·View the Maryland historic preservation overview
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