Seattle SMC 25.12 empowers the Landmarks Preservation Board to designate individual landmarks. Approved landmarks require a Certificate of Approval before any controlled-feature alteration; over 500 landmarks are listed citywide.
Seattle SMC 25.12 establishes the Landmarks Preservation Board, an 11-member volunteer body of architects, historians, and community members appointed by the Mayor. Owners or third parties may nominate properties at least 25 years old meeting one of six criteria (architecture, association with significant person, etc.). After a public hearing, the Board designates the landmark and negotiates controls listing protected features (commonly exterior and site). Subsequent alteration of controlled features requires a Certificate of Approval. Owners gain property tax incentives via King County Special Valuation (10-year frozen assessment) and federal tax credits. Demolition is rarely granted. Smith Tower, Space Needle, and Paramount Theatre are notable Seattle landmarks.
Unauthorized alteration: stop-work, restoration ordered, $500-$5,000 fine. Demolition without approval: criminal misdemeanor plus loss of building permits for years and forfeiture of tax incentives.
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See how Seattle's historic-cultural monuments rules stack up against other locations.
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