Frequently Asked Questions

What is a "historic zoning commission?"

A historic zoning commission is a local commission, appointed by the City or County Mayor and confirmed by City Council or County Commission. Members of the Commission have interest or experience in preservation. They are required to represent historical organizations, or have experience in architecture, engineering or law, and one member must also serve on MPC. Historic Zoning Commissions are responsible for reviewing applications to alter, demolish or move properties protected by historic overlay, for reviewing proposed new construction in historic districts, for overseeing the identification and designation of historic properties and for reviewing proposed National Register nominations from their area.

How are historic properties identified?

Historic properties are identified through a survey process in which properties over a certain age are researched, photographed and entered into a data base. From that data base, historic themes that have been significant to the community area identified, and properties that are representative of that theme are identified. Knoxville and Knox County performed a county-wide survey from 1982-1986, and have continued to update that survey and identify additional properties for designation as part of their comprehensive planning process.

What are "historic districts" and "individual historic buildings?"

Historic districts are geographically defined areas that contain significant numbers of historic properties that share common historic events, architectural features or physical development. Individual buildings are typically single buildings with extremely significant architecture and history.

Within the boundaries of a historic district, properties are labeled as contributing or non-contributing. Noncontributing properties are those which have been altered from their original appearance, or were not constructed within the significant historical time frame. Proposed changes to contributing properties will receive a much more intensive review than changes proposed for noncontributing properties.

What standards of review are used by the historic zoning commission?

The designation report includes design guidelines that will be used by the historic zoning commissions to determine if future changes to property area appropriate.