Questions & Answers

A local historic landmark is an individual building, structure, site, area or object that has historical, architectural, archaeological or cultural significance and has been recognized by official designation by the Currituck County Board of Commissioners for its importance.

Honor – Landmark designation is an honor that is bestowed on the County’s most significant historic properties.

Reduced Property Taxes – A landmark owner is eligible for an annual 50% property tax deferral for as long as the historic character of the property is maintained.

Once the property has been designated, the owners are required to obtain a “Certificate of Appropriateness” from the Currituck County Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) before making changes to the exterior of the property.

A Certificate of Appropriateness, or COA, is a type of permit that certifies changes to a historic landmark are appropriate to the historic character of the property.

Local designation should not be confused with listing in the National Register of Historic Places, a federal program administered by the state.

Although some properties may carry both types of designation, the National Register and local landmark designation are totally separate and independent programs with different requirements and benefits.

The Currituck County Board of Commissioners designates historic landmarks after receiving a recommendation from the Currituck County Historic Preservation Commission (HPC).

The Historic Preservation Commission has adopted an inventory as a guide to evaluate a property’s eligibility for landmark designation. Property owners usually initiate the nomination/application process.  Property can’t be nominated without the owner’s consent