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Historic Homes: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I find out if my home is historic?

How do I get a historical commission plaque for my home?

Am I allowed to make renovations to my historic home?

How can the Queen Village Historic Preservation Alliance help me?

How do I find out if my home is historic?
All houses on the Philadelphia Register of Historic Places are listed on the Historical Commission's web site.  Note that not just homes with historic plaques are on the register. It's important to check to see if your home is listed. You can also search by address on the Philadelphia Architects and Buildings Web site.

How do I get a historical commission plaque for my home?
If your house is on the Philadelphia Historic Register (see first question above), you are eligible to apply for a Historic Plaque. This is the plaque that you see on many of the houses in Society Hill, and a few houses in Queen Village. The application process consists of completing the application form and submitting a 5” x 7” photograph of your home. There is no fee involved in applying.

[Download a Historic Plaque Application - pdf, 34kb]

The Historic Commission reviews the application and photo to determine if the house meets the requirements for a plaque. They are looking for houses in original or restored condition, with all of the public viewed details accurate for the time period of the house. In particular, the doors, windows, trim, shutters, and brickwork must be as they were originally. Of course, it does not have to be the original item that was on the house when it was built; it just needs to be a good facsimile. There are a number of companies that sell historically accurate items appropriate for the houses in our area. Look at your neighbors’ properties for clues as to what your house should have. For more information on either of these things, contact the Historic Commission in City Hall.

If your house is accepted for a plaque, the Commission notifies you and the plaque company of the registration number. Then you contact Quint, the plaque company, to arrange for purchase. The plaque is made of cast aluminum. The cost is around $60.

If your house is not accepted for a plaque, the Commission will give you feedback as to what needs to be corrected in order to get the plaque.


Am I allowed to make renovations to my historic home?
If your home is on the historic register (see first question above), then any renovations to the public view are overseen by the Historic Commission. When you apply for a building permit, they first check to see if you are home is on the register. If you are, then you will be referred to the Commission for approval first. Once you have their approval, then you will be able to get a building permit. For more information, please contact the Philadelphia Historical Commission.

How can the Queen Village Historic Preservation Alliance help me?
Our committee members have experience working with the Historical Commission. We will guide you through the process and advise on the best way to present your case. We can help you make the most of your time in front of the Commission.

If you have any questions about your home, making renovations, working with the Philadelphia Historical Commission, be sure to contact this committee, or email history@qvna.org.

Also, learn more about Philadelphia history by visiting the historic links.