Preservation Resources

WHAT IS HISTORIC PRESERVATION?

As defined by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, this is the act of identifying, protecting, and enhancing buildings, places, and objects of historical and cultural significance. Preservation efforts are always evolving to honor and support the needs of existing residents, while nurturing and protecting the historical elements that make the city so special. In doing so, the community gains a better understanding of its unique character and diverse culture, creating a more livable and proud sense of community. Every historical site has a story to tell.

UNDERSTANDING THE HISTORIC DESIGNATION PROCESS.

Read the City of Rockville’s designation process for historic properties here. Your application will be reviewed by several City bodies, including the Historic District Commission, Planning Commission, and the Mayor and Council. There are many reasons to have a property designated as a historic site!

Safeguarding the heritage of Rockville by preserving districts which reflect its cultural, social, economic, political or architectural history
Stabilizing and improving property values within these districts Fostering civic beauty
Strengthening the local economy
Promoting the use and preservation of historic districts for the education, welfare and pleasure of the residents of Rockville

OWNERS OF HISTORIC PROPERTIES

MAINTENANCE, REPAIRS AND ALTERATIONS

Exterior changes to historic properties require review and approval by the City’s Historic District Commission.
Click here to see the process for obtaining a Certificate of Approval.

TAX CREDITS

If you own a historic property in Rockville, there are resources available for tax credits to offset the cost of repairs. Montgomery County tax credits are administered through the City of Rockville.

ADVOCACY NEWS

Ask the City to Protect King Farm Farmstead Park

On Monday, October 13 at 6 pm, The City of Rockville released the 104 page King Farm Farmstead Park Masterplan Proposal. There is discussion and possible adoption by Mayor and Council on October 20, 2025 at 7:10 pm! Peerless Rockville has long advocated that adaptive reuse is vital for this significant property. However, this proposal […]

Be Aware: Update to Historic Preservation Ordinance

On Monday, October 6, The Rockville Mayor and Council held a work session on the Zoning Ordinance Rewrite & Comprehensive Plan, which was taken off the agenda last week due to time. Peerless Rockville supports efforts to improve and update the historic preservation policy in the City. Read below for what we’re following. We will […]

Rockville Town Center Master Plan – Public Hearing Oct. 28

City staff want to receive input from residents on the future of Town Center! On September 25 the Planning Commission approved the draft Town Center Master Plan and authorized its transmittal to the Mayor and Council. This is a major milestone in the process, which officially moves the project on to its final phase: seeking adoption by […]

Montrose School Update

A REUNION AT HISTORIC MONTROSE SCHOOLHOUSE, 40 YEARS IN THE MAKING In 1979, Peerless Rockville boldly purchased a dilapidated two-room schoolhouse that was in the path of a planned major highway. State officials leased the land for $1 a year, with the agreement that Peerless would move the building when the road was built. The […]