Before you get started in person
About article 85 demolition delay
The Boston Zoning Code was amended in 1995 to include a demolition delay policy called Article 85. The article provides a predictable process for reviewing requests to demolish buildings by:
- Establishing an appropriate waiting period during which the City and the applicant can propose and consider alternatives to the demolition of a building of historical, architectural, cultural or urban design value to the City;
- Providing an opportunity for the public to comment on the issues regarding the demolition of a particular building; and by
- Minimizing the number and extent of building demolition where no immediate re-use of the site is planned.
WHAT BUILDINGS ARE SUBJECT TO ARTICLE 85?
- All buildings located in either the Downtown or Harborpark.
- All neighborhood buildings at least fifty years of age.
- All buildings located in a Neighborhood Design Overlay District.
Landmarked buildings are reviewed by the BLC or the appropriate local historic district commission.
Complete your Application
Please read all the Article 85 Rules and Regulations before submitting the Article 85 application.
The following documents are required as part of the application:
- Photographs of the property and neighboring properties. All photographs must be keyed to a map;
- A map showing the property. Maps are available on the Assessor’s website or through the Boston Redevelopment Authority;
- A plot plan;
- Plans and elevations if a new structure is proposed;
- Proof of ownership; and
- The notarized signatures of the owner/applicant.
Specific details about the document requirements are listed in the application. Incomplete applications will be returned. See our top 10 tips for preparing your Article 85 application.
Bring your application to us
Complete applications may dropped off at:
- Boston Landmarks Commission
- One City Hall Square, Room 709
- Boston, MA 02201
- Office hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Wait to hear from us
Landmarks Commission staff has 10 days to review a complete application and get back to the applicant with a determination. Using specific criteria, we either find the building “significant” or “not significant.” If it is significant, we'll schedule a public hearing within 30 days.
The applicant is required to hold a community meeting before coming to a Boston Landmarks Commission hearing. Read more about these requirements and the public hearing process.
Before you get started by mail
About article 85 demolition delay
The Boston Zoning Code was amended in 1995 to include a demolition delay policy called Article 85. The article provides a predictable process for reviewing requests to demolish buildings by:
- Establishing an appropriate waiting period during which the City and the applicant can propose and consider alternatives to the demolition of a building of historical, architectural, cultural or urban design value to the City;
- Providing an opportunity for the public to comment on the issues regarding the demolition of a particular building; and by
- Minimizing the number and extent of building demolition where no immediate re-use of the site is planned.
WHAT BUILDINGS ARE SUBJECT TO ARTICLE 85?
- All buildings located in either the Downtown or Harborpark.
- All neighborhood buildings at least fifty years of age.
- All buildings located in a Neighborhood Design Overlay District.
Landmarked buildings are reviewed by the BLC or the appropriate local historic district commission.
Complete your application
Please read all the Article 85 Rules and Regulations before submitting the Article 85 application.
The following documents are required as part of the application:
- Photographs of the property and neighboring properties. All photographs must be keyed to a map;
- A map showing the property. Maps are available on the Assessor’s website or through the Boston Redevelopment Authority;
- A plot plan;
- Plans and elevations if a new structure is proposed;
- Proof of ownership; and
- The notarized signatures of the owner/applicant.
Specific details about the documentation requirements are listed in the application. Incomplete applications will be returned. See our top 10 tips for preparing your Article 85 application.
Mail it to us
Mail complete applications to:
- Boston Landmarks Commission
- One City Hall Square, Room 709
- Boston, MA 02201
- Office hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Wait to hear from us
Landmarks Commission staff has 10 days to review a complete application and get back to the applicant with a determination. Using specific criteria, we either find the building “significant” or “not significant.” If it is significant, we'll schedule a public hearing within 30 days.
The applicant is required to hold a community meeting before coming to a Boston Landmarks Commission hearing. Read more about these requirements and the public hearing process.