Historic Preservation
Madison's Historic Preservation Program
The City of Madison has many historic and cultural resources that tell the diverse story of our city. We continue to integrate these places into our changing city. In Madison there are five local historic districts and 184 local landmarks, regulated by the Madison Landmarks Commission. Additionally, there are many National Register Districts, an honorary designation managed by the Wisconsin Historical Society and the National Park Service. These historic and economic assets contribute to our sense of place.
633 E Johnson St
1 E Gilman
1014 Williamson St
135 N Prospect
624 S Thornton St
511 E Main St
811 Williamson St
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Compatible side addition for elevator to historic commercial building
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Solar panel installation on historic building
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Stone Dutchman repair
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Use correct mortar to prevent damage to historic bricks
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Residential accessible ramp
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Accessible ramp on historic commercial building
Making Alterations to Historic Properties
The Landmarks Commission must approve changes to properties with local historic designation. This process protects the character of buildings, streets, and neighborhoods as they evolve. Changes requiring approval include:
- Exterior alterations
- New construction
- Demolitions
You must obtain a Certificate of Approval (CoA) for any of the above. Please apply for your CoA before applying for a building permit.
How to Apply for a Certificate of Approval (CoA)
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Use the standards of approval and guidelines to plan your project
- Local Landmarks: Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation
- Local Historic Districts: Standards and Illustrated Design Guidelines
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Prepare your materials.
- Pictures of existing conditions (please include in a single document with labels)
- Narrative scope of work
- List of proposed materials or product specifications/cut sheet
- Larger projects: Completed Landmarks Commission Application Form
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Email materials to Landmarks Commission
- landmarkscommission@cityofmadison.com
- Combine materials into one document when possible, with labels
- If you cannot combine and must send individual files, they must be .doc, .docx, .pdf, .jpg, or .png
- Label email attachments with your address and date
- Individual emails cannot exceed 20 MB. If you split up your materials into more than one email, list the number in the subject. For instance: "Landmarks Application -123 Elm Street - email 1 of 4", “…2 of 4", etc. Label attachments “Site Plan 1 of 3", “…2 of 3", etc.
Upcoming Meetings
| Monday, Apr. 20, 2026 | 5:00pm | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday, May. 4, 2026 | 5:00pm | ||
| Monday, May. 18, 2026 | 5:00pm | ||
| Monday, Jun. 8, 2026 | 5:00pm | ||
| Monday, Jun. 22, 2026 | 5:00pm |