Historic Preservation Planning & Programs
Local and Statewide Planning
Local Preservation Planning
Planning is key to preserving Iowa’s historic resources. Whether your project involves a single historic resource or the broader community, a historic preservation plan will help create a shared vision, build consensus, establish priorities and chart future action.
A number of resources are available to help you get started:
- The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Preservation Planning
- Historic Preservation Planning Program
- Guidelines for Local Surveys: A Basis for Preservation Planning
- The American Planning Association’s Policy Guide on Historic and Cultural Resources
- The Preparation and Use of Historic Structure Reports
- National Alliance of Preservation Commissions
Statewide Preservation Planning
Iowa’s Comprehensive Statewide Historic Preservation Plan is intended to embrace local, regional and state perspectives. The current Statewide Historic Preservation Plan for 2013-2022 includes the state’s goals for the years 2013 to 2022, each of which is accompanied by strategies or action steps.
In early 2021, the State Historic Preservation Office began the process to develop the next ten-year plan for the years 2023-2032. An advisory committee composed of members of the public and representatives of Iowa’s preservation partners has been formed and had their first meeting in April. A series of opportunities for public input are scheduled for 2021. Please check the calendar for updates.
Public Input
A link to the draft plan is available in the resources section. The Advisory Committee and the State Historic Preservation Office encourage Iowans to email their feedback to historic.preservation@iowa.gov.
Feel free to email the same address if you have general questions or comments or would like to receive updates on the planning process. Thank you for your interest in preserving Iowa history.