It is a goal of the city to protect significant historic properties. Follows are multiple ways that may be accomplished, outside of historic overlays.
Historic Classifications
Historic properties are classified in different ways, that could require action when planning demolition, development or rezoning.
Archaeological Sites
The Metro Historical Commission reviews development projects for known and potential archaeological resources. Based on the nature of the project and resources, staff will recommend documentation and/or Level I, II or III excavation. Contact [email protected] for more information.
Historical Cemeteries
Metro Historical Commission has developed a set of cemetery guidelines to assist property owners and developers with the preservation and planning for historical burial grounds. Visit our Preservation Resources page to access the guidelines and other resources for cemeteries.
National Register of Historic Places (NR)
If demo is requested for properties listed in the National Register, the demo permit could be delayed up to 90 days to discuss incentives for rehab, to discuss salvage opportunities, to document and in some cases request a historic marker.
If rezoning is requested, the Metro Historical Commission and Councilmember may request to Landmark the historic portion, recommend an archaeological study, and/or request funding for a historic marker.
Contact [email protected] to begin discussion and schedule documentation.
Eligible for Listing in the National Register of Historic Places (NRE)
These properties are not yet listed in the National Register but eligible and so treated in the same manner as NR properties.
Contact [email protected] to begin discussion and schedule documentation.
Pre-1865
If demo is requested for a pre-1865 building, it is possible that demo can be denied by Council Ordinance BL2006-936.
If rezoning is requested, the Metro Historical Commission and Councilmember may request to Landmark the historic portion, recommend an archaeological study, and/or request funding for a historic marker.
Contact [email protected] to begin discussions.
Worthy of Conservation (WOC)
These properties are either worth keeping but retention isn’t required, or more research needs to be done to determine if the property may be NRE.
Historic Zoning District
There are six different types of historic zoning overlays protected through a design review process.
Salvage Opportunities
The Metro Historical Commission Foundation is in a partnership with Nashville's Preservation Station to accept donations of salvaged materials that generate funds for the non-profit.
- Contact the Metro Historical Commission Foundation and let them know you are interested in learning more about the donation program.
- The Foundation may need to schedule an appointment to view the items. If the donation is accepted, the Foundation will sell it to Preservation Station.
- The Foundation will issue a charitable receipt to you.
- You will arrange for transfer of the salvageable goods to Preservation Station.
Visit Preservation Station for contact information and to learn more about the type of items the store carries.
Someone interested in donating items that may not be of interest to Preservation Station can also receive a charitable donation letter for items donated to Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore.