A local landmark is a house, building, structure, bridge, work of art, place, parking facility, fence, gate, wall, landscaping or other object deemed by the City to be historically significant and thus worthy of protection. Historic significance can be based on its value as part of the historical, cultural, aesthetic, artistic, social, ethnic, or other heritage of the nation, state, or community. It can also be based on the fame of one of its owners or occupants or architect or on the building’s role in a historic event. As a general rule, local historic landmarks should be at least fifty years old to be eligible for landmark status.

There are 130 local historic landmarks in the City of Joliet. 

Landmark designation celebrates the historic and architectural character of our unique neighborhoods and the City’s heritage.  Local landmark designation also protects your investment in your historic property. No exterior improvements, alterations, additions, and other construction may be performed on the exterior of the building or structure unless approved through the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) through the Historic Preservation Commission.

There can be financial advantages for the owners of landmarked buildings, too. Well-maintained and architecturally interesting homes help to stabilize property values in your neighborhood. Property taxes can be frozen – meaning no increases – for ten years. Also, in some cases, Federal income tax credits for renovations are possible, if the property is income-producing. Contact the Historic Preservation Commission for more details.

No exterior improvements, alterations, additions, and other construction may be performed on the exterior of the building or structure unless approved through the issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) through the Historic Preservation Commission. Interior modifications are not subject to Commission approval. The role of the Historic Preservation Commission is to ensure that the proposed exterior work is appropriate and sensitive to historic house, building or structure. A COA approval by the Historic Preservation Commission is required before a Building Permit application can be made.  Most landmark owners find these procedures coincide with their desires to maintain and enhance their historical properties. The Joliet Historic Preservation Commission can offer assistance in planning for the changes.

The Joliet Historic Preservation Commission (JHPC) invites you to consider landmarking your home.  Information on the nomination process can be found here