Frequently Asked Questions

Will designation affect the use of my property?

No, the use of your property is regulated by the City’s zoning ordinance. Whatever uses are permitted by the zoning for the property are not affected by district designation. District designation is concerned with aesthetics, not the uses of the property.

Does district designation require me to “retrofit” my property to have 
a more “historic” character?

No, district designation will not require retrofitting. If a property owner elects to make an addition or an improvement to his/her property after designation the addition will need architectural review and approval by the Historic and Design Review Commission (HDRC).

Does district designation affect changes to the interior of the property?

No, the HDRC only reviews exterior modifications.

Will I always need to hire an architect?

No, just as before designation, minor changes to a property probably would not need the services of an architect. However, just as in undesignated areas, a property owner would probably elect to hire an architect or other design or engineering professionals to assist in plans for a major change to his/her property. Employment of an architect is at the discretion of the property owner.

Will my taxes increase?

No, historic designation alone does not increase taxes. Property taxes are based upon the assessed valuation (property value) of the land plus the improvements on the land. Historic designation may add to the desirability of a neighborhood, resulting in increased real estate market activity, which could be reflected in higher assessed valuations by the Bexar County Appraisal District.