Historic Preservation
Historic Area Work Permits
The process of obtaining a Historic Area Work Permit (HAWP) is not intended to be cumbersome or to create a significant delay in commencing work on your historic property. Preservation Planners employed by the Historic Preservation Office are happy to answer any questions you may have, and the Montgomery County Historic Preservation Commission works swiftly to review applications in a process that does not exceed 45 days.
Instructions for filing a HAWP Application*
Historic Area Work Permit Application*
If you need additional guidance on applying for a Historic Area Work Permit, you may move through our step-by-step guide below. Please feel free to contact our office at (301) 563-3400 if we can be of assistance to you.
Reminder: Many local government offices may need to review your proposed changes before you apply for a HAWP including, but not limited to, Brookeville, Chevy Chase Village, Garrett Park, Kensington, and Takoma Park. If applicable, please check with your municipality before applying for a HAWP.
*Requires a PDF reader to view.
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A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a HAWP
Step 1: Does your property require a Historic Area Work Permit?
Determine if your property is listed on the Locational Atlas or the Montgomery County Master Plan for Historic Preservation by contacting our office between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday.
- If your property is not listed on the Locational Atlas or the Montgomery County Master Plan for Historic Preservation, then you do not need to obtain a Historic Area Work Permit (HAWP) and should contact the Montgomery County Department of Permitting Services to inquire about filing for any Building Permits that may be required by the County.
- If your property is listed on the Locational Atlas or the Montgomery County Master Plan for Historic Preservation, then proceed to Step 2.>>>