Frequently Asked Questions

Historic districts help preserve the historic architectural character of the properties they include. This protects unique qualities that contribute to quality of life – both for the property owners and for everyone in their community. Historic districts are the focus of civic pride, which can help maintain their property values while promoting the entire city as an appealing place to live.

No, only that part of your property that is visible from a public way is subject to review.

No, you do not have to remove the vinyl siding as that is an existing condition from before the property’s addition to the historic district.

No, you can maintain the current look of your house.

No, paint COLORS are not under the purview of the Historic District Commission. However, the appropriateness, or inappropriateness, of painting certain exterior surfaces, like masonry, are under the purview of the Historic District Commission and require review.

If you are interested in using historically appropriate paint colors see “Paint” in the Resource section.

Studies show that that prices for homes in historic districts have been consistently higher than those outside historic districts. As such, if your property were to remain or be entered into a historic district – it is likely that your property value will increase over time.

The development of a vacant lot in a historic district would be subject to review of the Historic District Commission.

New development is permitted in a local historic district but is subject to review by the HDC. The development need not replicate historic styles, but should complement the current surrounding historic streetscape. 

A local historic district cannot force homeowners to maintain their properties. The local building department has jurisdiction in this regard and may issue a nuisance ordinance violation for properties that are considered unsafe or left to fall into disrepair.  

For any homeowners struggling to maintain their home, hardship waivers can be granted by the Historic District Commission for extenuating circumstances. The HDC is a resource for homeowners and we would encourage you to reach out so that we can assist in finding solutions and resources to help maintain your historic home.

A National Register of Historic Places District provides formal recognition of a property's significance and provides potential tax incentives for owners of income-producing property but provides only limited protection from adverse effects by Federal or State involved projects; the recognition does not provide any further protection for the property. 

No. Date plaques only document the age of the house.

The Framingham Historic District Commission was established by a special act of the State Legislature under Chapter 447 of the Acts of 1956, as amended. It has jurisdiction over all registered historic districts in the city. The Commission is responsible for approving all exterior architectural changes to buildings and structures within the historic districts and visible from a public way, including demolition, construction, exterior renovation, and signs. The City Council appoints all Commissioners.

The Framingham Historical Commission maintains an inventory of all buildings, areas and sites of architectural or historical importance in the city. Individual property descriptions, as well as information about historical periods and architectural styles of Framingham buildings, may be reviewed on the Historical Commission's web site. The Historical Commission also holds public hearings for any proposed demolition that is not in one of the historic districts but affects a property older than 75 years of age.

The Framingham History Center is a non-profit corporation that manages the Village Hall on the Common, the Edgell Memorial Library, and the Old Academy building. The History Center maintains collections and information covering many different aspects of Framingham’s history as well as other resources such as maps and directories. They also manage exhibits about Framingham’s history and sponsor ongoing lecture and education events.