Historic Resource Overlay District Ordinance Update

The Historic Resource Overlay District (HROD) is a special set of rules and regulations that govern historic properties within Tredyffrin Township. An overlay is a type of land-use based legislation that affects many like-properties across multiple zoning districts. It sits above zoning in the legislation hierarchy.  Overlays are commonly used to create special requirements or incentives that promote specific development goals or preserve community assets. Adopted in the 1960's, The HROD is Township-wide, meaning it applies to all designated historic properties regardless of their underlying zoning classification. Despite its expansive geographic boundary, only one property is currently apart of the HROD.

In early 2021, the Township was informed by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) that the HROD does not meet state mandated standards. As a result, the Township was liable to have its Certified Local Government (CLG) status revoked. The Township's CLG status is an exclusive designation held by very few municipalities in the Commonwealth. It provides Tredyffrin access to dedicated grant programs, specialized technical assistance, and participation in the National Register of Historic Places nomination process. In addition to potentially losing its CLG status, the Township recognizes the importance of historic preservation. Situated at a key crossroads in American history, Tredyffrin Township is rich in historic resources that define its character. Protecting these assets while ensuring they remain economically viable for property owners is a top priority in planning for the Township’s future.

You don’t need to own a historic property to be a stakeholder in the HROD update! Historic buildings are a shared community asset that help create the strong sense of place many Tredyffrin residents value. These structures define what makes Tredyffrin unique and can be leveraged to ensure the Township remains the special place it has been for generations. Whether it’s protecting important buildings from demolition or guiding the architectural style of new development, historic preservation benefits everyone - not just property owners.

For some, historic preservation conjures up images of draconian preservation laws that overregulate once-simple construction projects. Historical commissions become known as the "shutter police", while the Township’s staff become bogged down in the minutia of regulating the color of rooftile permitted on an historic property. This dim picture is NOT the goal of the Township, nor is it the wishes of its Historical Commission. If written correctly, the HROD update will enhance the value of historic properties, not diminish it. Beyond added protections, the update can offer benefits such as expanded land-use options, streamlined permitting, and increased density allowances. With strong community participation, owners of historic properties stand to gain the most from these changes.