Cambridge Historical Commission

The Cambridge Historical Commission is the city’s historic preservation agency, protecting more than 3,100 buildings across two historic districts and four neighborhood conservation districts, plus individual landmarks and properties under preservation restrictions. Property owners planning exterior changes in these areas apply to the commission or one of the neighborhood conservation district commissions, whose volunteer boards review applications at monthly meetings.

Staff investigate potential additions to the city’s historic inventory through public engagement, planning and designation studies. They meet daily with property owners, architects and local institutions to give technical advice on preservation issues and sustainable building practices. Under the city’s demolition delay ordinance, every building over 50 years old is protected, and the demolition of significant buildings may be delayed so preservation alternatives can be explored.

What to Know

• The commission supports three neighborhood conservation district commissions in addition to the citywide body.
• Its annual Preservation Awards honor outstanding historic preservation projects across Cambridge.
• Staff can offer advice on historic paint colors.