Historic District
About Frostburg's Historic District
Frostburg is a special place to live for many reasons, including the fact that the town’s Historic District, comprised of over 350 commercial and residential properties, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places! The City of Frostburg takes great pride in this designation, and we strive to preserve Frostburg’s historic buildings and neighborhoods. Preservation plays an indispensable role in shaping and maintaining the visual character, social fabric, and resiliency of our distinct neighborhoods. We count on the owners of historic buildings to continue preserving the historic integrity of their property to ensure a lasting legacy.
What is a Historic District?
The Historic Preservation Overlay District, also commonly referred to as the Frostburg Historic District, is a group of buildings and neighborhoods that have been identified as having special historic and architectural character within the context of the City’s history. In 1975, City Council passed the ordinance which created the Frostburg Historic District Commission (HDC), a five-member body appointed by the Mayor and Council who review proposals for exterior alterations to properties within the Historic District in order to protect them from destruction, insensitive rehabilitation, or inappropriate new construction. This monthly "review process" exists with the goal of protecting the architectural character of the Historic District's buildings, while still allowing owners the flexibility to adapt the structures to changing needs.
Who oversees the Historic District?
In 1975, the Mayor and City Council created the Historic District Commission (HDC), a five-member panel of preservation-minded citizens, to help protect Frostburg’s historic buildings and neighborhoods. Section 4.1 of the City’s Zoning Ordinance establishes a review process for exterior additions and alterations to buildings, structures, and features on your property that are intended to be visible from a public street. There is no fee for the Historic District Commission to review your application materials.
