Subtitle 29. Preservation of Historic Resources
Codified through Bill No. CB-018-2026, adopted May 12, 2026, effective July 24, 2026. Source: Municode, Supplement 2026 Update 2. Editorial notes and legislative history omitted.
Subtitle 29. Preservation of Historic Resources
Division 1. General Provisions
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-101 (2026)
Sec. 29-101. PurposeLinkCopy Citation
(a)
The purpose of this Subtitle is to provide for the identification, designation, and regulation, for purposes of protection, preservation, and continued use and enhancement of, those sites, structures (including their appurtenances and environmental settings), and districts of historical, archaeological, architectural, or cultural value.
(b)
It is the further purpose of this Subtitle to preserve and enhance the quality of life and to safeguard the historical and cultural heritage of the County; strengthen the local economy, and stabilize and improve property values in and around such historic areas; foster civic beauty; and preserve such sites, structures, and districts for the education, welfare, and continued utilization and pleasure of the citizens of the County, the State of Maryland, and the United States of America.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-102 (2026)
Sec. 29-102. DefinitionsLinkCopy Citation
(a)
For the purposes of this Subtitle, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them:
(1)
Appurtenances and Environmental Setting: The entire parcel of land, within those boundaries existing as of the date the historic resource is delineated on the master plan for historic preservation, and structures thereon, on which is located a historic resource, unless otherwise specified on such master plan, or unless reduced by the Commission, and to which it relates physically and/or visually, as determined by the Commission. Appurtenances and environmental settings shall include, but need not be limited to, walkways and driveways (whether paved or unpaved), vegetation (including trees, gardens, and lawns), rocks, pasture, cropland, and waterways.
(2)
Commission: The Historic Preservation Commission of Prince George's County, Maryland, as hereinafter described.
(3)
Day: Calendar day, unless otherwise specified.
(4)
Demolition by Neglect: A condition where the principal structure of a historic resource has become unsafe as a result of any of the following conditions:
(A)
The deterioration of the foundations, exterior walls, roofs, chimneys, doors, or windows, so as to create or permit a hazardous or unsafe condition to exist; or
(B)
The deterioration of the foundations, exterior walls, roofs, chimneys, doors, windows, the lack of adequate waterproofing, or the deterioration of interior features which will or could result in permanent damage, injury, or loss of or loss to foundations, exterior walls, roofs, chimneys, doors, or windows.
(5)
Director: The Director of the Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement of Prince George's County, Maryland, or his designee.
(6)
Exterior Features: The Architectural style, design, and general arrangement of the exterior of a historic resource, including the color, nature, and texture of building materials, and the type and style of all windows, doors, light fixtures, signs, or other similar items found on, or related to, the exterior of a historic resource.
(7)
Historic District: A historic resource comprised of two (2) or more properties which are significant as a cohesive unit and contribute to historical, architectural, archaeological, or cultural values, which has been so classified in the master plan for historic preservation. A historic district includes all property within its boundaries.
(8)
Historic Resource: An area of land, building, structure, or object, or a group or combination thereof, including appurtenances and environmental setting, which may be significant in national, state, or local history, architecture, archaeology, or culture. Historic resources, designated as such on the master plan for historic preservation, are considered unclassified and shall not be subject to requirements for Historic Area Work Permits or prevention of demolition by neglect until reviewed under the provisions of Division 6 of this Subtitle.
(9)
Historic Site: Any individual historic resource that is significant and contributes to historical, architectural, archaeological, or cultural values which has been so classified in the master plan for historic preservation, or pursuant to Section 29-120.01 of this Subtitle.
(10)
Master Plan for Historic Preservation: The duly Adopted and Approved Historic Sites and Districts Plan of Prince George's County, Maryland.
(11)
Permit: When not otherwise identified, permit means a Historic Area Work Permit issued, or not to be issued, by the Director, authorizing work on a historic resource.
(12)
Planning Board: The Prince George's County Planning Board of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission.
Division 2. Master Plan
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-103 (2026)
Sec. 29-103. Master Plan for historic preservationLinkCopy Citation
(a)
As part of the General Plan for the physical development of that part of the Maryland-Washington Regional District in Prince George's County, Maryland, there has been prepared, adopted, and approved a master plan for historic preservation, titled "Historic Sites and Districts Plan, Prince George's County, Maryland," which constitutes an amendment of the General Plan for the Maryland-Washington Regional District. Said plan designates historic resources, Historic Sites, and Historic Districts, and delineates their boundaries; it proposes means for the integration of historic preservation into the planning process; and it suggests other measures to advance the goals of historic preservation.
(b)
The master plan for historic preservation specifies the significant characteristics and values of each Historic Site and Historic District, and includes boundary justification for each Historic District.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-104 (2026)
Sec. 29-104. Historic Sites and Historic Districts criteriaLinkCopy Citation
(a)
In considering unclassified historic resources for classification as Historic Sites or Historic Districts, the following criteria are applicable:
(1)
Historical and Cultural Significance.
(A)
The historic resource:
(i)
Has significant character, interest, or value as part of the development, heritage, or cultural characteristics of the County, State, or Nation;
(ii)
Is the site of a significant historic event;
(iii)
Is identified with a person or a group of persons who influenced society; or
(iv)
Exemplifies the cultural, economic, social, political, or historic heritage of the County and its communities.
(2)
Architectural and Design Significance.
(A)
The historic resource:
(i)
Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction;
(ii)
Represents the work of a master craftsman, architect or builder;
(iii)
Possesses high artistic values;
(iv)
Represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or
(v)
Represents an established and familiar visual feature of the neighborhood, community, or County, due to its singular physical characteristics or landscape.
(b)
If the historic resource meets any of the criteria noted above, it may be classified as a Historic Site or Historic District.
Division 3. Historic Preservation Commission
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-105 (2026)
Sec. 29-105. Commission establishedLinkCopy Citation
(a)
Commission. There is hereby created a Commission to be known as the "Historic Preservation Commission of Prince George's County, Maryland."
(b)
Membership. The Commission shall consist of nine (9) members appointed by the County Executive and confirmed by the County Council, in accordance with the provisions of Sections 504 and 322 of the Charter of Prince George's County, Maryland. Each member must be a resident of Prince George's County, Maryland. Four (4) of the members of the Commission shall possess a demonstrated special interest, specific knowledge, or professional or academic training in such fields as history, architecture, architectural history, archeology, anthropology, agriculture and historic preservation. Three (3) members shall represent the fields of commerce, realty, municipal governance, community associations, building/preservation restoration, home building and law. One (1) member shall be selected from the Prince George's County Historical and Cultural Trust Board, or a Prince George's County based 501(c)(3) organization committed to the preservation of the cultural and historical legacy of Prince George's County. One (1) member shall be selected from the Prince George's County Association of Realtors. The members of the Commission shall, to the extent possible, be selected to represent the geographical, social, economic, and cultural concerns of the residents of Prince George's County, Maryland.
(c)
Chairman and Vice Chairman. In accordance with the provisions of Sections 504 and 322 of the Charter of Prince George's County, Maryland, the County Executive shall appoint, with the confirmation of the County Council, the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Commission. Said appointments occurring after the Commission's first year of operation shall be made after due consideration has been given to any recommendation(s) of the Commission.
(d)
Terms. The terms of the members of the Commission shall be for three (3) year periods, except that the terms of the initial appointments shall be three (3) each for one (1), two (2) and three (3) year periods, so that not more than three (3) appointments shall expire each year.
(e)
Vacancy. Any vacancy in the membership of the Commission caused by the expiration of a term, resignation, death, incapacity to discharge duties, removal for cause, or any other reason, shall be filled for a new term, or for the remainder of the term for which there is a vacancy, as the case may be, in the same manner as provided herein for the appointment and confirmation of the initial members of the Commission. In the case of expiration of terms, members may continue to serve until their successors are appointed and confirmed.
(f)
Removal for Cause. A member may be removed from the Commission by the County Executive with County Council concurrence. In each case, the cause for removal shall be stated in writing.
(g)
Compensation. The members of the Commission shall serve without compensation, but they may be reimbursed for actual expenses incurred in the performance of their duties, provided that said expenses are provided for in the County or Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission budget and reimbursement is approved by the Chief Administrative Officer of the County or the Executive Director of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, as appropriate.
(h)
Regulations. The Commission shall adopt such rules and regulations as may be necessary for the proper transaction of the business of the Commission which shall be subject to review and approval by the District Council prior to their becoming effective.
(i)
Meetings. The Commission shall hold such regular meetings as, in its discretion, are necessary to discharge its duties.
(j)
Staff. Employees may be assigned to the Commission, and such services and facilities made available as are deemed necessary or appropriate for the proper performance of its duties. The County Attorney shall serve as counsel to the Commission.
(k)
Design Guidelines. The Commission shall adopt architectural and design guidelines which shall specify such characteristics as materials, colors, signage, landscaping, and other design-related considerations that will be permitted, encouraged, limited, or excluded from Historic Sites or Historic Districts. Such guidelines shall be subject to review and approval by the District Council prior to their becoming effective.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-106 (2026)
Sec. 29-106. Powers and duties of the CommissionLinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Commission shall have the following powers and duties:
(1)
To research historic resources and to recommend to the Planning Board and District Council, using the criteria of Section 29-104, which ones should be classified as Historic Sites or Historic Districts in the master plan for historic preservation.
(A)
If a proposed Historic District lies within the corporate limits of a municipality, the Commission shall ask for municipal comments on boundaries and other aspects of the District.
(B)
In the event that a municipality objects to the designation of a proposed Historic District boundary for property within the municipality, a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the full District Council shall be required to override a municipal recommendation on designation of boundaries.
(2)
To maintain and update an inventory of historic resources;
(3)
To act upon applications for Historic Area Work Permits and other matters referred to it for action pursuant to the provisions of this Subtitle;
(4)
To appoint members to local advisory committees to assist and advise the Commission in the performance of its functions;
(5)
To recommend programs and legislation to the County Council and the Planning Board to encourage historic preservation;
(6)
To review any legislation, applications for zoning map amendment, special exception, site plan, and subdivision approval, and other proposals affecting historic preservation, including preparation and amendment of master plans, and to make recommendations thereon to the appropriate authorities;
(7)
To serve as a clearinghouse for information on historic preservation for County Government, individuals, citizens' associations, historical societies, and local advisory committees; to provide information and educational materials for the public; and to undertake activities to advance the goals of historic preservation in Prince George's County, Maryland;
(8)
To employ or hire consultants or other temporary personnel, as necessary, consistent with County or Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission contract provisions, to assist the Commission in the accomplishment of its functions. Consultants or other personnel shall be compensated as may be provided for in the County or Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission budget;
(9)
To administer any revolving funds, easement or grant programs, tax incentive programs, or other preservation funds that will aid historic preservation, as approved in the County or Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission operating budget;
(10)
To delineate the extent of appurtenances and environmental setting associated with a historic resource during the development review processes; and
(11)
To make recommendations on the use, upkeep, or adaptive reuse of publicly-owned historic resources.
Division 4. Historic Area Work Permits
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-107 (2026)
Sec. 29-107. Requirement for Historic Area Work PermitLinkCopy Citation
(a)
A Historic Area Work Permit for work on publicly- or privately-owned property containing a historic resource classified as a Historic Site or property within a Historic District shall be obtained pursuant to the provisions of this Subtitle before:
(1)
Constructing, reconstructing, moving, relocating, demolishing, or in any manner modifying, changing, or altering the exterior features;
(2)
Performing any grading, excavating, construction, or substantially modifying, changing, or altering the appurtenances and environmental setting; or
(3)
Erecting or causing to be erected any sign or other advertisement. Those signs or advertisements exempted from sign permit requirements by Division 32 of the Zoning Ordinance are generally exempt from requirements for a Historic Area Work Permit, except for signs of historical interest; murals, paintings, or other artistic displays; name or location of cities, towns, villages, and the like; regulatory signs other than those mandated by State or local law; signs on windows, other than temporary signs; memorial signs or tablets; and gateways.
(b)
Building, grading, razing, and sign permit applications shall indicate whether the structure or property is a historic resource. If it is classified as a Historic Site or property within a Historic District, or if the Historic Preservation Commission has determined that it should be classified under the provisions of Division 6 of this Subtitle, the applicant shall be required to complete a Historic Area Work Permit application, unless exempted by Subsection (d) of this Section.
(c)
The Commission shall adopt procedures to encourage owners of historic resources to seek the advice of the Commission, prior to filing an application for a Historic Area Work Permit, on the appurtenances and environmental setting appropriate to the resource, appropriate design, construction methods and materials, financial information concerning historic preservation, or any other matter under this Subtitle affecting the issuance of a permit.
(d)
Nothing in this Section shall be construed to require the issuance of a Historic Area Work Permit for any ordinary maintenance, repair of exterior features, customary farming operations, or landscaping which will have no material effect on this historical, archaeological, architectural, or cultural value of the historic resource of which said features are a part. For the purposes of clarification of this Subsection, the Commission shall develop and publish guidelines regarding what activities constitute ordinary maintenance, and shall send a copy of these guidelines to the Director and the Planning Board, and by certified mail, return receipt requested, to all owners of historic resources delineated on the master plan for historic preservation.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-108 (2026)
Sec. 29-108. Application for Historic Area Work PermitLinkCopy Citation
(a)
Application for issuance of a Historic Area Work Permit shall be filed with the Director. The application shall provide such information as is deemed necessary by the Commission for its proper evaluation and action upon the application in accordance with the provisions of this Subtitle.
(b)
Within three (3) working days after the filing of a completed application, the Director shall forward the application and all attachments to the Commission for its review.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-109 (2026)
Sec. 29-109. Procedure for review of Historic Area Work Permit applicationsLinkCopy Citation
(a)
Upon receipt of an application, the Commission shall schedule a public appearance at a Commission meeting to consider the application.
(b)
After scheduling a public appearance, the Commission shall forward a notice of the public appearance to the applicant, the Director, the Planning Board, a municipality respecting land within its boundaries, and those citizens or organizations which the Commission feels may have an interest in the proceedings.
(1)
Upon being advised by the Commission that a public appearance has been scheduled, the Director shall forward copies of the application, and all attachments thereto, to the Planning Board and any appropriate municipality for their review and comments. Any comments which the Planning Board or municipality may wish to make shall be submitted, in writing, to the Commission prior to the public appearance.
(2)
In the event that a municipality objects to the issuance of a Historic Area Work Permit for property within the municipality, a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the Historic Preservation Commission shall be required to override a municipal recommendation on the Historic Area Work Permit.
(c)
At the public appearance, the procedures shall be informal and formal rules of evidence shall not be applicable. Interested persons shall be encouraged to comment and minutes of the proceedings shall be kept.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-110 (2026)
Sec. 29-110. Action by Commission on Historic Area Work Permit applicationsLinkCopy Citation
(a)
Within forty-five (45) days after the filing of an application or, in the event that the record is left open by the Commission, within fifteen (15) days after the close of the record, whichever occurs later, the Commission shall publish its findings, conclusions, and decision, except as provided in Subsections (d) and (e) of this Section. No record shall be held open for longer than seven (7) calendar days.
(b)
The Commission's decision shall instruct the Director to:
(1)
Issue the permits;
(2)
Issue the permit subject to any conditions necessary to insure conformance with the provisions and purposes of this Subtitle; or
(3)
Deny the permit.
(c)
The Commission's findings, conclusions, and decision shall be mailed to the applicant and sent to the Director, the Planning Board, any appropriate municipality and, upon request, to any other interested person.
(d)
If, after a public appearance, the Commission finds that denial of the permit will result in the denial of all reasonable use of the property, or will impose undue hardship on the owner, there shall be a period of one hundred twenty (120) days after such finding to allow for the development of an economically feasible plan for the preservation of the structure. If, at the end of such period, no plan has been found, the Commission shall, with or without further public appearance, instruct the Director to issue a permit, with any conditions which will further the intent and purpose of this Subtitle.
(e)
Failure of the Commission to act on an application within the time periods provided in this Section shall be considered as authorization by the Commission to issue the permit. The time period for Commission action may be extended with the written consent of the applicant.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-111 (2026)
Sec. 29-111. Criteria for Historic Area Work PermitsLinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Commission shall instruct the Director to deny a permit if it finds, based on the evidence and information presented to it, that the alteration for which the permit is sought would be inconsistent with, or inappropriate or detrimental to, the preservation, enhancement, or ultimate protection of the historic resource and the purposes of this Subtitle.
(b)
The Commission shall instruct the Director to issue a permit subject to such conditions as are found to be necessary to insure conformance with the purposes and requirements of this Subtitle, if it finds that:
(1)
The proposal will not substantially alter the exterior features of the historic resource;
(2)
The proposal is compatible in character and nature with the historical, archaeological, architectural, or cultural features of the historic resource and is in harmony with the purpose and intent of this Subtitle;
(3)
The proposal will enhance or aid in the protection, preservation, and public or private utilization of the historic resource in a manner compatible with its historical, archaeological, architectural, or cultural value;
(4)
The proposal is necessary in order to remedy unsafe conditions or health hazards;
(5)
The proposal is necessary in order that the owner of the subject property not be deprived of reasonable use of the property or suffer undue hardship; or
(6)
In balancing the interests of the public in preserving the historic resource with the use and benefit of the alternative proposal, the general public welfare is better served by issuance of the permit.
(c)
In the case of any application for work within an environmental setting of a Historic Site, or on property located within a Historic District, the Commission shall be lenient in its judgment of applications for structures of little historical or design significance or for new construction. This shall mean that the Commission will authorize issuance of such permit, with any necessary conditions, if authorization of such permit would not impair the character of the Historic Site or Historic District.
(d)
Nothing in this Subtitle shall be construed to limit new construction, alteration, or repairs to any particular period or architectural style.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-112 (2026)
Sec. 29-112. Miscellaneous provisionsLinkCopy Citation
(a)
The applicant for a permit shall have the responsibility of providing sufficient information to support the application. If the property is subject to an easement held by another historic preservation organization, the applicant shall submit proof of approval of exterior architectural review by the organization holding the easement.
(b)
Any permit issued by the Director may be subject to such conditions imposed by the Commission as are reasonably necessary to assure that work shall proceed in accordance with the permit. The work shall be performed in a manner not injurious to those characteristics and qualities of the historic resource which are of historical, architectural, archaeological, or cultural value.
(c)
The Director is responsible for the enforcement of the provisions of this Subtitle.
(d)
Authorization by the Commission to issue a Historic Area Work Permit shall not be construed to eliminate the need to obtain any other permit required by State or local law, ordinance, or regulation, in conformance with all requirements applicable to such other permit. No other permit shall be issued, however, which would authorize work to be performed in violation of any conditions imposed by a Historic Area Work Permit, or in the absence of such permit.
Division 5. Demolition by Neglect
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-113 (2026)
Sec. 29-113. Notice of demolition by neglectLinkCopy Citation
(a)
If a historic resource has been classified as a Historic Site or is within a Historic District, as shown on the master plan, or if the Historic Preservation Commission has determined that it should be so classified, and the Commission finds that demolition of the resource by neglect should be prevented, the Commission shall instruct the Director to notify, in writing, the owner(s) of record of the property, any person having any right, title, or interest therein, and the occupant or other person responsible for the maintenance of the property, of the deterioration. The notice shall specify the minimum items of repair or maintenance necessary to correct or prevent further deterioration.
(b)
Such notice shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, addressed to said owner or other responsible person at the last known address, or the address shown on the real property tax records in the Land Records of Prince George's County, Maryland. Such notice, when so addressed and deposited with the Postal Service with proper postage prepaid, shall be deemed complete and sufficient. In the event that such notice is returned by the postal authorities, the Director shall cause a copy of the notice to be personally served by authorized representative upon the owner(s) of record of the property, any person having any right, title, or interest therein, and the occupant or other person responsible for the maintenance of the property, or upon any agent of the owner(s) thereof. In the event that personal service cannot be accomplished, as aforesaid, after reasonable efforts, notice shall be accomplished by posting a public notice on the property.
(c)
The notice shall provide that corrective action shall commence within thirty (30) days or less of the receipt or posting of said notice, unless an extension is granted by the Commission, and shall be completed within a reasonable period of time. The notice shall state that the owner(s) of record of the subject property, or any person having any right, title, or interest therein, may, within ten (10) days, request a hearing on the necessity of preventing demolition by neglect. If no request for hearing is received within this time period, the notice shall become final.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-114 (2026)
Sec. 29-114. Public hearing on demolition by neglectLinkCopy Citation
(a)
In the event a public hearing is requested, it shall be held by the Commission upon thirty (30) days' written notice mailed to the owner(s) of record, all persons having any right, title, or interest in the subject property, the occupant or other person responsible for the maintenance of the property, and all citizens and organizations which the Commission reasonably finds may have an interest in the proceedings.
(b)
The Commission shall not require structures of little historical or design significance within a Historic District to be preserved unless demolition would seriously impair the character of the Historic District. After the public hearing on the issue of the necessity of preventing demolition by neglect, if the Commission still finds that demolition should be prevented, it shall instruct the Director to issue a final notice to be mailed to the owner(s) of record, all persons having any right, title, or interest in the subject property, and the occupant or other person responsible for the maintenance of the property, in the manner prescribed in Section 29-113(b), stating the items of repair and maintenance necessary to correct or prevent further deterioration, except as provided in Section 29-115.
(c)
The property owner(s) or other responsible person shall institute corrective action to comply with the final notice within thirty (30) days of receipt of the revised notice, unless an extension is granted by the Commission.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-115 (2026)
Sec. 29-115. HardshipLinkCopy Citation
(a)
In the event that the Commission finds that, notwithstanding the necessity for preventing demolition by neglect, the action provided for in Section 29-114(c) would impose a substantial undue hardship on the owner(s) of record of the subject property, the Commission shall seek alternative methods to preserve the historic resource. If none are confirmed within a reasonable time, the Director shall not proceed in accordance with Section 29-114(b), but shall issue the permit. However, the Historic Preservation Commission shall be permitted to make measured drawings and photographs, or on-site documentation by some other method within a mutually agreeable period of time.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-116 (2026)
Sec. 29-116. Action upon noncompliance with final noticeLinkCopy Citation
(a)
Upon failure, neglect, or refusal of the property owner or other responsible person, duly notified, to take the corrective action specified in the final notice, the Director is hereby authorized and empowered to institute, perform, and complete the necessary remedial work to prevent further demolition by neglect, and to defray the costs thereof, as hereinafter provided.
(b)
When the County has completed the necessary remedial work to prevent further demolition by neglect, or has paid for its completion, the actual cost thereof, if not paid by the property owner(s) or other responsible person prior thereto, shall be charged to the owner(s) of record of such property on the next regular tax bill forwarded to such owner(s), and said charge shall be due and payable by said owner(s) at the time of payment of the tax bill.
(c)
When the full amount due the County is not paid by the property owner(s) when due, the Director shall cause to be recorded in the Office of the Treasurer of Prince George's County a sworn statement showing the cost and expense incurred for the work, the date(s) upon which the work was done, and the location of the property on which the work was done. Such notice shall result in a tax lien being placed against the affected property which shall be collected in the same manner as the County taxes on such real property.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-117 (2026)
Sec. 29-117. Unclassified historic resourcesLinkCopy Citation
If the historic resource is unclassified on the master plan for historic preservation, it shall be reviewed under the provisions of Division 6 of this Subtitle before the provisions of this Division 5 may take effect.
Division 6. Review of Unclassified Historic Resources and Historic Properties
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-118 (2026)
Sec. 29-118. Public hearingLinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Historic Preservation Commission shall conduct a public hearing to make findings as to the significance of any unclassified historic resource designated as such on the master plan for historic preservation, and shall determine whether it should be classified as a Historic Site or property within a Historic District when:
(1)
Any application for a permit to demolish or substantially alter the exterior features or environmental setting of any historic resource is referred to the Commission;
(2)
Any zoning map amendment, special exception, subdivision, or site plan approval application is referred to the Commission, as required by either Subtitle 27 or Subtitle 24 of this Code;
(3)
The Commission is notified that a historic resource is the subject of demolition by neglect;
(4)
The Commission is requested by any owner or public agency to make such findings and determinations; or
(5)
The Commission, of its own volition or at the request of any other person or agency, decides to make such findings and determinations.
(b)
At least two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled public hearing, the Historic Preservation Commission shall send written notice of the date, time and place of the hearing to the owner(s) of the historic resource, adjoining property owners and to those departments, agencies, organizations, and citizens which the Commission reasonably believes may have an interest in the proceedings.
(c)
At least two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled public hearing, the Planning Board shall post the property with a detailed sign identifying the historic resource, giving the date, time, and place of the public hearing, and giving instructions for obtaining further information. All signs shall be posted in such a manner as to be conspicuous and legible. When the subject of the public hearing is a proposed Historic Site, the signs shall be posted in the same manner detailed for Zoning Map Amendment applications (see the Zoning Ordinance). When the subject of the public hearing is property within a Historic District, the location and number of signs necessary to provide adequate public notice shall be determined by the Historic Preservation Commission, provided that there shall be at least one (1) sign on each road on which the Historic District has frontage. Notwithstanding the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, no fee shall be required for the posting of such signs.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-119 (2026)
Sec. 29-119. Determination by Historic Preservation Commission; appeal to the District CouncilLinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Historic Preservation Commission shall make a determination as to whether an unclassified historic resource should be classified or not classified as a Historic Site or property within a Historic District. The Commission's decision shall be in writing, shall include findings of fact and conclusions, and shall be sent to all persons of record.
(b)
If a permit application is involved and the Historic Preservation Commission determines that the historic resource should not be classified as a Historic Site or as property within a Historic District on the master plan for historic preservation, the Director shall forthwith issue the permit.
(c)
If a permit application is involved and the Historic Preservation Commission determines that the historic resource should be classified as a Historic Site or property within a Historic District on the master plan for historic preservation, the permit application shall be governed by the procedures established in Division 4 of this Subtitle.
(d)
If the historic resource is subject to demolition by neglect and the Historic Preservation Commission has determined that the resource should be classified as a Historic Site or property within a Historic District on the master plan for historic preservation, the provisions of Division 5 of this Subtitle shall govern.
(e)
Any person of record may appeal the decision of the Historic Preservation Commission, on the question of treating the property as classified or unclassified, to the District Council. Any appeal of the Commission's decision shall be filed with the Commission within thirty (30) days of service of the decision.
(1)
Upon receipt of an appeal, the Commission shall transmit to the Zoning Hearing Examiner the notice of appeal, and the names and addresses of all persons of record. In addition, the Commission shall transmit its findings of fact and conclusions along with all record evidence.
(2)
Upon receipt of the foregoing, the Zoning Hearing Examiner shall cause the matter to be set for public hearing. The hearing shall be advertised in the County's newspapers of record and notice of the date, time, and place of the hearing shall be sent to the Historic Preservation Commission, the Planning Board, and all persons of record in the case before the Historic Preservation Commission.
(3)
The hearing before the Zoning Hearing Examiner shall be a de novo hearing and shall be held in accordance with Subtitle 27 of this Code. After the close of the hearing record, the Zoning Hearing Examiner shall file a written recommendation with the District Council. All persons of record shall be given at least ten (10) days written notice by the Clerk of the Council of the date and time of the District Council's consideration of the matter. Any person of record may appeal the recommendation of the Zoning Hearing Examiner within fifteen (15) days of the filing of the Zoning Hearing Examiner's recommendation with the District Council. If appealed, all persons of record may testify before the District Council. Persons arguing shall adhere to the District Council's Rules of Procedure, and argument shall be limited to thirty (30) minutes for each side, and to the record of the hearing. The recommendation of the Zoning Hearing Examiner and the decision of the District Council shall be based upon Section 29-104(a), the Historic Sites and Districts criteria, as well as the record submitted by the Historic Preservation Commission and any additional evidence submitted before the Zoning Hearing Examiner. Any party wishing to submit a transcript of the testimony taken before the Historic Preservation Commission shall be required to pay the costs thereof.
(4)
The District Council's decision to approve or disapprove the decision of the Historic Preservation Commission shall be in writing, and shall expressly declare the unclassified historic resource to be a Historic Site or property within a Historic District, or declare that the site is no longer a historic resource. Copies of the decision shall be sent to the Commission, the Planning Board, and all persons of record.
(f)
For the purposes of this Section, "Person of Record" means the owner(s) of the historic resource, and any municipality, person, firm, corporation, partnership, association, organization, or agency who, in writing or in testimony before the Historic Preservation Commission, requests to be made a person of record prior to the close of the hearing record.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-120 (2026)
Sec. 29-120. Time limits for Historic Preservation Commission actionLinkCopy Citation
(a)
Within forty-five (45) days after the referral of an application, or within fifteen (15) days after the closing of the record following a public meeting, whichever occurs later, the Historic Preservation Commission shall render its findings and conclusions with respect to an application. No record shall be left open for longer than seven (7) calendar days.
(b)
Notwithstanding the provisions of Subsection (a), in the case of any subdivision application referred to the Commission, it shall render its findings and conclusions with respect to the application within thirty (30) days after referral of such application.
(c)
Failure to adhere to the limits specified in this Section shall be considered as a recommendation for removal of the historic resource from the master plan for historic preservation and as authorization by the Commission to the Director to issue a permit or take no further action under Division 5 of this Subtitle, whichever is applicable.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-120.01 (2026)
Sec. 29-120.01. Petition for Designation of Historic PropertiesLinkCopy Citation
(a)
The owner(s) of a historic property may file a petition for designation as a historic site with the Historic Preservation Commission. As part of this designation process, the Historic Preservation Commission may also find that the property is eligible for listing in the Historic Sites and Districts Plan or in the National Register of Historic Places. For the purposes of processing Prince George's County Historic Property Grant Program applications only, this determination shall allow grant applications to be considered by the Planning Board pursuant to Section 29-139(d).
(b)
At least sixty (60) days in advance of the public hearing by the Historic Preservation Commission, the Commission shall refer the application to those departments, agencies, organizations, citizens and parties which the Commission reasonably believes may have any interest in the proceedings. Any such comments should be received no less than 30 days prior to the Historic Preservation Commission's scheduled public hearing.
(c)
Within one hundred twenty (120) days of receipt of the petition, the Commission shall research and review the historic property and conduct a public hearing to make findings as to the significance of the historic property and shall determine whether it should be classified as a historic site.
(d)
At least two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled public hearing, the Commission shall send written notice of the date, time and place of the hearing to the owner(s) of the historic property, adjoining property owners and to those departments, agencies, organizations, citizens and parties which the Commission reasonably believes may have an interest in the proceedings. The property shall be posted pursuant to the requirements of Section 29-118(c).
(e)
Within thirty (30) days after the record is closed, the Commission shall make a recommendation on the petition and transmit the recommendation to the Planning Board.
(f)
Within sixty (60) days of receipt of the recommendation, the Planning Board shall hold a joint public hearing with the District Council on the Commission's recommendation.
(g)
Written notice of the date, time and place of the hearing shall be provided at least thirty (30) days prior to the hearing.
(h)
Within thirty (30) days after the record is closed, the Planning Board shall submit its recommendation to the District Council.
(i)
Within two (2) months following receipt of the Planning Board's recommendation, the District Council shall make a final decision on the petition.
Division 7. Administrative Provisions
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-121 (2026)
Sec. 29-121. Violations and penaltiesLinkCopy Citation
Any person who violates a provision of this Subtitle by willfully performing or allowing to be performed any work without first obtaining a Historic Area Work Permit, failing to comply with any conditions of such permit, failing to comply with any final notice issued pursuant to this Subtitle, or disobeying or disregarding a decision of the Historic Preservation Commission may be liable for a civil monetary fine in the amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00), enforceable pursuant to the procedural provisions of Subtitle 28 of the County Code, for each violation. Each day of violation shall constitute a separate violation. The application of such penalty shall not preclude the enforced removal or abatement of prohibited conditions or acts through appropriate proceedings in equity.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-122 (2026)
Sec. 29-122. Appeals to the CourtLinkCopy Citation
(a)
In the event any person is aggrieved by a decision of the Commission under Division 4 or 5 (relating to the provisions of a permit or demolition by neglect), the aggrieved person may file an appeal with the Circuit Court within thirty (30) calendar days after the date upon which the Commission's decision is received. Review of the Commission's decision by the Court shall be based upon the record of the proceedings before the Commission.
(b)
There shall be no appeal to the Court from a decision of the Commission under Division 6 (either declaring the unclassified historic resource a Historic Site or property within a Historic District or deleting the resource from the plan). However, an appeal may be filed with the Court from the action of the District Council within thirty (30) days after service of the final decision of the District Council. Review of the District Council's action shall be based upon the record before the District Council.
(c)
When the Historic Preservation Commission renders a decision under Division 4 or 5 incidental to the classification of a historic resource as a Historic Site or property within a Historic District, the appeal period shall be stayed until thirty (30) days after service of the District Council's decision.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-123 (2026)
Sec. 29-123. ApplicabilityLinkCopy Citation
(a)
This Subtitle shall be applicable throughout that part of the Maryland-Washington Regional District in Prince George's County, Maryland, except as hereinafter provided. It shall also be applicable to any municipality within Prince George's County, Maryland, but outside the boundaries of the Maryland-Washington Regional District, if the governing body of that municipality so consents.
(b)
The provisions of this Subtitle shall not be applicable to the White Farm, identified as Site Number 73-6 on the Adopted and Approved Historic Sites and Districts Plan of Prince George's County, Maryland.
(c)
The provisions of this Subtitle supplement other provisions of the Prince George's County Code. Nothing contained herein shall be deemed to abrogate, annul, or abridge any other requirement of State or local law, ordinance, or regulation, or any decision of another regulatory body made pursuant thereto, or to supersede the authority of the District Council or the Planning Board.
(d)
Resources and sites of potential archeological significance that are not listed in the Master Plan for Historic Preservation are subject to the provisions of Subtitle 24.
Division 8. Sale of Historic Sites, Historic Resources, or Property Within a Historic District
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-124 (2026)
Sec. 29-124. Disclosure; requiredLinkCopy Citation
(a)
Property owners who offer to sell any interest in a Historic Site, historic resource, or other real property located within a Historic District shall disclose to prospective purchaser(s) that the property is a Historic Site, historic resource, or is located within a Historic District in Prince George's County.
(b)
The requirements of subsection (a) shall be met by delivering written notice to the prospective purchaser that is sufficient to inform the prospective purchaser that:
(1)
Historic Sites, historic resources, and property located within a Historic District are subject to regulation as provided in the Prince George's County Code, Subtitle 29, Preservation of Historic Resources; and
(2)
These laws, guidelines, and regulations may limit the extent to which the exterior features of the property being offered for sale may be modified or altered.
(c)
The disclosure required by this Section shall be made prior to execution of a valid sales contract for the property.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-125 (2026)
Sec. 29-125. Misrepresentation of Historic StatusLinkCopy Citation
(a)
No person or entity shall advertise, market, or sell, or cause to be advertised, marketed, or sold, any property alleging that the subject property is a County Historic Site or Historic Resource, or that the subject property is in proximity to a Historic Site or Historic Resource, unless the property alleged as historic is designated as a Historic Site or Historic Resource on the Historic Sites and Districts Plan or listed in the National Register of Historic Places or any adopted amendment thereto.
(b)
No person or entity shall advertise, market, or sell, or cause to be advertised, marketed, or sold, any property alleging that the subject property is located within a County Historic District, unless the subject property is wholly located within a designated County Historic District as identified in the Historic Sites and Districts Plan or listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
(c)
Each publication of a statement in violation of Subsections (a) or (b) shall be a separate and distinct civil violation.
Division 9. Historic Agricultural Resource Preservation Program
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-126 (2026)
Sec. 29-126. Short TitleLinkCopy Citation
This section shall be known and may be cited as the "Historic Agricultural Resource Preservation Program (HARPP)."
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-127 (2026)
Sec. 29-127. Purchase of Historic Agricultural Resource Preservation EasementsLinkCopy Citation
(a)
Introduction. The purpose of this program is to implement the recommendations of Commission 2000, as adopted by CB-80-2000, and to provide regulatory incentives to preserve historic agricultural, rural, and natural resources in the Rural and Agricultural Areas. The County Council recognizes the public value in protecting certain historic viewsheds, vistas, rural culture and character as well as longstanding agricultural enterprises in the Rural and Agricultural Areas in perpetuity through the acquisition of easements.
(b)
Purpose. The regulations in this Part are established for the following purposes:
(1)
Implement the policies of the Prince George's County General Plan and the Green Infrastructure Plan relating to the Rural and Agricultural Areas;
(2)
Preserve, protect and enhance properties that provide historic agricultural character, culture and practices;
(3)
Encourage others to preserve, protect and enhance properties that provide historic agricultural character, culture and practices;
(4)
Promote interest in and the study of historic properties and properties that provide historic agricultural character, culture and practices;
(5)
Maintain historic rural character and way of life through the limitation of non-agricultural uses and the preservation of scenic viewsheds, vistas and related natural resources.
(c)
Nature of the Program. The program is declared to be of general benefit to the citizens of this County and charitable in nature.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-128 (2026)
Sec. 29-128. ApplicabilityLinkCopy Citation
The HARPP program shall be available to all land zoned AG, AR, RE, or RR in, or adjacent to, land that is located outside of the County's approved Growth Policy Boundary area and is within the Rural and Agricultural Areas. Any conservation easement acquired under the HARPP program shall be voluntarily offered by the landowner.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-129 (2026)
Sec. 29-129. DefinitionsLinkCopy Citation
(a)
The following definitions shall apply to the interpretation and implementation of the HARPP program:
(1)
Historic Property: A parcel, site, building, structure, or object located in the Rural and Agricultural Areas with historic agricultural, rural and natural qualities that is significant in the history, upland archaeology, architecture, engineering, and culture of the County (including remains related to a parcel, site, building, structure, or object) or that provides significant viewsheds, vistas, character or otherwise contains unique agricultural qualities of significance to the community within the Rural and Agricultural Areas.
(2)
Historic Agriculture Resource Preservation Program Easement ("HARPP Easement"). The term "HARPP Easement" shall be defined as a non-possessory interest encumbering a qualifying property, whether the easement is appurtenant or in gross, and conveyed by a landowner in connection with the HARPP program for the purpose of restricting the development potential on the property in perpetuity.
(3)
Parcel. The term "parcel" shall mean a lot or acreage parcel, lawfully recorded among the Land Records of Prince George's County.
(4)
Preservation. The identification, evaluation, recordation, documentation, acquisition, protection, management, rehabilitation, restoration, stabilization, maintenance, and reconstruction of an historic property as defined in this Section.
(5)
Program Administrator. The term "Program Administrator" shall mean the person designated by the Planning Board to administer the program.
(b)
Construction. A HARPP easement may encumber one (1) or more lots, parcels or a portion thereof. For the purposes of the HARPP program the term "parcel" shall by its terms include all of the property described in the legal description attached to the historic conservation HARPP easement and recorded among the Land Records of Prince George's County.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-130 (2026)
Sec. 29-130. AdministrationLinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Program Administrator shall administer the daily activities of the County's HARPP program and serve as the central clearing house for all HARPP related activities and shall have the following powers and duties:
(1)
Propose program regulations and procedures for the proper administration and implementation of the HARPP program subject to Planning Board approval.
(2)
Promote the HARPP program by providing educational materials to the public and conducting informational meetings.
(3)
Investigate and pursue additional public and private resources to fund the HARPP Program and maximize private participation.
(4)
Evaluate all applications to determine their eligibility and ranking score, rank applications and include the ranking in the recommendations to the Planning Board.
(5)
Prepare a report on the development potential for each parcel subject to an application, based on the development certification provided by the Department of Planning and include the report in the recommendations to the Planning Board.
(7)
Provide the staff support, report and recommendation to the Planning Board for each application.
(8)
Monitor HARPP easements purchased to assure compliance with the terms and conditions of each easement.
(b)
The Planning Board shall have the following powers and duties:
(1)
The Planning Board shall review the report and recommendation for each application provided by the Program Administrator and the Planning Board shall determine which easements should be purchased.
(2)
Periodically review the program regulations and procedures and make recommendations to the Program Administrator and the County Council of any changes needed to maintain the program's consistency with the Prince George's County General Plan and the Green Infrastructure Plan relating to the Rural and Agricultural Areas.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-131 (2026)
Sec. 29-131. Eligibility CriteriaLinkCopy Citation
(a)
A parcel must meet the following criteria to be eligible to participate in the program: the parcel must be zoned AG, AR, RE, or RR and located in, or adjacent to, land that is located outside of the County's approved Growth Policy Boundary area and is within the Rural and Agricultural Areas; privately owned; the parcel shall be capable of being further developed; include a minimum of thirty-five (35) acres with no more than one (1) single family dwelling; include a minimum of twenty (20) acres with no more than one (1) single family dwelling and be contiguous to property held as a public park or preserve or property otherwise permanently protected from development by easement or otherwise.
(b)
A parcel shall not be eligible to participate in the program if the development rights have been extinguished by the donation or sale of an easement to any other party, or if the property is encumbered by a tree conservation easement or any other easement which would prevent the property from being developed.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-132 (2026)
Sec. 29-132. Ranking CriteriaLinkCopy Citation
In order to effectuate the purposes of the HARPP program, parcels for which conservation applications have been received shall be ranked according to criteria and the point values established in the regulations. The criteria shall include the size of the parcel; natural, cultural and scenic resources including, but not limited to viewsheds, vistas, cultural significance; development pressures; proximity to other preserved land and deferral from prior funding cycle as a result of insufficient funding. The Planning Board may consider the rankings provided by the Prince George's Soil Conservation District pursuant to CB-47-2006.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-133 (2026)
Sec. 29-133. HARPP easement terms and conditionsLinkCopy Citation
(a)
Each HARPP easement shall be in a form recommended by the Program Administrator and approved by the Planning Board, and shall contain, at a minimum, the following provisions:
(1)
Restriction on division. The parcel shall be restricted from any further division except as may provided in the program regulations.
(2)
No buy-back option. The owner shall not have the right to re-acquire the development potential extinguished by the HARPP easement.
(3)
Agricultural uses. Agricultural uses and commercial uses related to agriculture shall be permitted on a parcel subject to a HARPP easement.
(4)
Prohibited uses. Industrial or non-agricultural commercial uses shall not be permitted on a parcel encumbered by a HARPP easement.
(5)
Designation of HARPP easement holders. The Planning Board shall hold the easement or may designate the easement holder of each HARPP easement subject to applicable State law.
(b)
The HARPP easements shall be recorded in the Land Records of the County.
(c)
HARPP easements may be transferred and/or assigned to another governmental body, land trust or non-profit with a demonstrated ability to monitor easements of this kind subject to applicable State law.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-134 (2026)
Sec. 29-134. Offer to PurchaseLinkCopy Citation
(a)
The Planning Board shall make offers to purchase HARPP easements based on the ranking and recommendations of the Program Administrator.
(b)
If funding is insufficient during a program year to purchase easements from all of the HARPP program applicants, the Program Administrator may recommend that some or all of the remaining applications be considered for acquisition in the next program year.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-135 (2026)
Sec. 29-135. Enforcement/PenaltiesLinkCopy Citation
(a)
Inspection. The Program Administrator or his designee shall have the right, upon prior written notice to the landowner, to enter upon the land subject to a HARPP easement annually to inspect for compliance with the terms and conditions of the HARPP easement.
(b)
Damages. The Program Administrator on behalf of the Planning Board shall be responsible for enforcing the HARPP easement if the landowner engages in practices or activities on the parcel which are inconsistent with the spirit and intent of the HARPP easement.
(c)
Injunction. In addition to other remedies available, the Program Administrator on behalf of the Planning Board may seek an injunction to halt the practices or activities which violate the terms and conditions of the easement.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-136 (2026)
Sec. 29-136. Rights of landownerLinkCopy Citation
(a)
General. The landowner retains all of the rights of a fee simple owner, except for the development rights, which shall be extinguished by the HARPP easement pursuant to this Subtitle. The HARPP easement shall not grant the public any rights of access or rights to use the land whatsoever.
(b)
Limited Number of Dwellings. This section applies to parcels of fifty (50) acres or more. A landowner shall be entitled to create one (1) additional dwelling in connection with an inter-family transfer per twenty-five (25) acres pursuant to requirements of the program regulations.
Division 10. Historic Property Grant Program
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-137 (2026)
Sec. 29-137. Establishment of ProgramLinkCopy Citation
There is hereby established and created a program to be known as the "Historic Property Grant Program." It shall be operated in accordance with the provisions of this Subtitle.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-138 (2026)
Sec. 29-138. DefinitionsLinkCopy Citation
(a)
Definitions in Subtitles 24 and 27 of the County Code shall apply to this Subtitle and shall be supplemented by the definitions in Subsection (b) of this Section.
(b)
The following terms used in this Subtitle are defined as follows:
(1)
Fund: The Prince George's County Historic Property Grant Fund.
(2)
Historic Property: A district, site, building, structure or object significant in the history, upland, and underwater archaeology, architecture, engineering and culture in the county, including remains related to a district, site, building, structure, or object. Historic Properties shall be defined as those not yet listed in the Inventory of Historic Resources and those properties not yet determined eligible for listing in the Historic Sites and Districts Plan or those properties not listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), or determined eligible for listing in the NRHP.
(3)
Preservation Easement: The term "preservation easement" shall be defined as a non-possessory interest encumbering a qualifying property, whether the easement is appurtenant or in gross, and conveyed by a landowner for the purpose of preserving the historic property and restricting the development potential on the property in perpetuity.
(4)
Program: The Prince George's County Historic Property Grant Program.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-139 (2026)
Sec. 29-139. AdministrationLinkCopy Citation
(a)
The powers of the program are exercised by the Planning Board.
(b)
The Planning Board shall adopt regulations to carry out the provisions of this program.
(c)
The Planning Board shall expend the amounts in the fund in accordance with Sections 26-102 and 26-105 of the Land Use Article of the Maryland Annotated Code to provide grants to nonprofit organizations or foundations, political subdivisions, or individuals for the purpose of acquiring, preserving, restoring, or rehabilitating historic properties.
(d)
The Historic Preservation Commission, upon the advice of its Grants Committee, will review all applications and make its recommendations to the Planning Board.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-140 (2026)
Sec. 29-140. InspectionLinkCopy Citation
The Planning Board or its designee shall have the right, upon prior written notice to the parcel owner, to enter upon the parcel subject to a historic preservation grant, to inspect the work for compliance with the terms and conditions of the preservation easement.
Prince George's County, Md., Code § 29-141 (2026)
Sec. 29-141. Program FundingLinkCopy Citation
Funds for the program shall be authorized annually in The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission Budget.