Nomination Process

Listing properties in the National Register of Historic Places is a multi-step process, coordinated by the State Historic Preservation Office and approved by the National Park Service. Once a nomination is accepted, that site becomes part of the country's official historical record. From beginning to end, a successful nomination typically takes 1-2 years.

The Road to Listing in the National Register

A National Register nomination is original research that includes essays about the appearance and the historic significance of the property, photos, maps, plans, and other supporting documentation. Compiling and writing a successful nomination is a significant effort, and property owners often hire a consulting preservationist to prepare it. 

Our office consults with property owners throughout the drafting phase -- we make site visits, review and comment on the draft nomination, and coordinate communication between local/state/federal entities.

The second phase begins with a review by the Rhode Island State Review Board, which makes its recommendation to the State Historic Preservation Officer. If approved by the Review Board, the State Historic Preservation Office (us!) submits the nomination to the National Park Service for final approval. Decisions are returned within 45 days of submission. 

To view nominations of listed Rhode Island properties, visit our Listed Properties page.  

For additional information, contact Joanna Doherty.