Overview
Buildings, structures and districts can be considered worthy of protection because of a role they played in history, outstanding architectural or engineering characteristics, or potential to yield new information to the archaeological record.
The National Register of Historic Places is a list of sites that are considered significant at the national level. The Register is administered by the National Park Service, in partnership with the State Historic Preservation Offices. Listing in the Register can mean that certain federal funds for preservation are available to property owners. In general, unless Federal funds are involved, private property owners are free to use, maintain, transfer, or dispose of their property without agency review or oversight.
The State Historic Preservation Office works with the National Park Service and also administers state-specific preservation programs.
In New York City, buildings that are considered historically significant can be protected through landmarking by the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC). Landmarking by the LPC carries requirements for how a property is maintained, altered or repaired.
Historic Buildings and Districts in Riverdale
View the Preservancy’s publication Architectural & Historical Resources of Riverdale, 1998 for descriptions of buildings in Riverdale that are listed in the National Register of Historic Places, landmarked by the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, or suggested for further study of historic significance.
Rules of the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC), Title 63 of the Rules of the City of New York
The Commission’s Rules define procedures for applications, public hearings, enforcement, permit renewal, and other aspects of working with the Commission, as well as detailed requirements for some types of work such as installation of air conditioners, awnings, windows, and other items. These rules apply to all landmarked buildings in the City of New York, including those in all historic districts.
View the Commission’s Rules on the LPC website.
Please call the Public Information Officer at the Landmarks Preservation Commission, 212-669-7817, to discuss whether a permit is needed for specific work on a landmarked building.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about changes to a landmarked building
The Commission’s FAQs address basics of how to work with the Landmarks Preservation Commission and the types of work for which a permit from the Commission is or is not required.
View the FAQs on the LPC website.
Property owners should call the Public Information Officer at the Landmarks Preservation Commission, 212-669-7817, to discuss requirements for specific projects.