Historic Preservation
The Office of Historic Preservation promotes and protects the City of Boston's cultural heritage. Part of the Environment, Energy and Open Space Cabinet, the department houses the Boston Landmarks Commission, the City Archaeology Program, and the Commemoration Commission.
Together, our teams raise awareness about environmental, social, and economic benefits of Boston's historic resources and the stories that can be told through cultural resources. We also promote the benefits of adaptive reuse of historic buildings and materials. Our department fosters economic development and cultural diversity by protecting and advocating for Boston's unique sense of place.
Contact
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26 Court Street
Floor 2Boston, MA 02108 -
Office HoursMonday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Spotlight
Small Building, Big Potential: Adaptive Reuse in the Aberdeen Architectural Conservation District
At its August 13, 2026 hearing, the Aberdeen Architectural Conservation District Commission (AACDC) approved a small project with big potential for a quiet corner of the neighborhood.
Archaeologists survey the earliest years of the South End’s Dwight School
The City of Boston Archaeology Program is heading back into the field for one final excavation this season. They’ll be in the South End at 35-43 Rutland Street ahead of the proposed construction of a rear addition to the building.
Two Boston Historic Districts Advance Toward National Register Listing
State approval recommends Downtown’s Historic Exchange District and Jamaica Plain’s Green Street corridor for National Register listing simultaneously opening new pathways for historic rehabilitation investment.
Monument Square Landmark District Working Study Report & Community Meeting
Join the Monument Square Landmark District Study Committee and Boston Landmarks Commission staff at a community meeting on October 21, 2026 at 6:00 PM, to learn more about the proposed district and how it offers protection to historic properties.
Celebrating the Copley Plaza Hotel, Boston's New Landmark
On Thursday August 13, 2026, the Fairmont Copley Plaza staff raised a glass to celebrate both 114 years of history and its new landmark designation from the City of Boston.
What’s Your Swan Boat Story?
In 2027, Boston will celebrate the 150th anniversary of both the Swan Boats and the Paget family’s remarkable stewardship.
Department Divisions
Departments
Boston Landmarks Commission
The Landmarks Commission (BLC) and the 10 local historic district commissions are comprised of volunteers nominated by professional organizations and neighborhood groups. The Commissions are tasked with reviewing exterior changes made to properties within their specific jurisdictions. The BLC also regulates the city's Article 85 Demolition Delay ordinance.
Archaeology Program
The City Archaeology Program was founded in 1983. The program's goal is to protect Boston's irreplaceable archaeological resources. Boston has hundreds of known archaeological sites within the City's borders. Archaeology staff curate the archaeological collections at the City’s Archaeology Laboratory.
Commemoration Commission
The Boston Commemoration Commission will mark upcoming historical anniversaries, including the United States' 250th in 2026, the 400th anniversary of the founding of the City of Boston in 2030, and other significant historical anniversaries.
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Environment, Energy, and Open Space Cabinet
Brian Swett is the Chief of Environment, Energy, and Open Space for the City of Boston. In this role, Chief Swett is responsible for leading the Cabinet in achieving its mission of enhancing environmental justice and quality of life in Boston by protecting air, water, climate, and land resources, as well as preserving and improving the integrity of Boston's architectural and historic resources.
Departments, Boards & Agencies
Contact
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26 Court Street
Floor 2Boston, MA 02108 -
Office HoursMonday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
