Frequently Asked Questions

The Historic Preservation Commission is a seven-member board appointed by the Bel Air Board of Town Commissioners to serve three-year terms on a volunteer basis. The Historic Preservation Commission reviews and recommends historic designation of applicable sites to the Board of Town Commissioners for designation by Resolution. The commission also reviews proposed plans for renovation, additions or demolition of designated historic sites to assure protection of these historic resources. The Historic Preservation Commission meets on the fourth Thursday of the month.

Properties which have been surveyed through the Maryland Historical Trust and are 50 years of age are eligible for Historic Site designation. The Bel Air Historic Preservation Commission will review property owner requests for designation during a public hearing. If the commission determines that the property is significant. The request is then forwarded to the Board of Town Commissioners for final approval. A formal resolution accompanies the request.

Historic site designation provides a property with a layer of protection which is intended to preserve the integrity of the building and land (if applicable). Designation status fosters civic character to safeguard Bel Air’s historic and cultural heritage. Properties which are designated also typically enjoy higher property values. Owners of local historic properties are eligible to receive local Bel Air tax credits for exterior improvements.

The local Bel Air tax credit program is only available to property owners of locally designated sites. Property owners must submit applications for Certificate of Approval and Tax Credit approval. A 10% tax credit is available for exterior renovations or rehabilitation and a 5% credit is available for new construction (exterior only). Upon completion of a project, a property owner must submit detailed receipts and proof of payment, so that the Bel Air Historic Preservation Commission may determine the final tax credit amount.