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Kentucky Heritage Council

Preservation Planning

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Preservation Planning in Kentucky

Historic places are part of what makes a community recognizable and distinct. Yet they are often at risk- lost to demolition, neglected over time, or significantly altered, losing their historic character.  

In Kentucky, the primary responsibility for protecting historic resources lies with local governments. While the National Register of Historic Places is a valuable recognition tool, listing alone does not prevent changes or demolition. Local action is essential to ensure historic sites are preserved and used in ways that benefit both present and future generations.

Planning for preservation means being intentional – viewing historic resources not as obstacles to progress, but as assets that can drive revitalization, promote tourism, support affordable housing, and strengthen community identity. Preservation is a practical tool for managing growth, guiding development, and ensuring communities retain the character and history that define them. 

Historic preservation does more than protect old buildings, it can:
  • Revitalize downtowns and neighborhoods
  • Attract tourism and investment
  • Support sustainability through reuse of existing buildings
  • Foster community pride and identity 
  • Provide tools for managing change and growth
Integrating preservation planning with other local initiatives – like housing, transportation, and economic development – can help communities meet current needs while retaining their historic charm.

What is a Historic Preservation Plan?

A preservation plan is a strategic framework that outlines a community’s vision, goals, and priorities for identifying, protecting, and enhancing its historic and cultural resources. It can stand alone or be integrated into a comprehensive plan alongside other local priorities.

More than just a document, a preservation plan is a community-driven process that brings together residents, local leaders, and stakeholders to shape how historic resources contribute to the community’s future. 

A well-rounded local preservation plan typically includes:
  • Identification and Documentation | Understand what exists by conducting a historic resource survey. A survey is the written and photographic record of all the historic buildings, structures, and places in a community, including cultural landscapes and archaeological sites. 
  • Evaluation of Local Conditions | Assess current planning tools, preservation ordinances, incentives, and zoning regulations. Identify what supports preservation – and what may be lacking.
  • Mapping and Inventory | Provide a clear, organized record of historic properties, including local designations, National Register listings, and landmarks. 
  • Policy and Strategy Development | Establish clear priorities for action – whether it is updating ordinances, expanding historic districts, encouraging adaptive reuse, or integrating preservation into other planning initiatives. 
  • Community Engagement and Goals | Work with residents, elected officials, and other stakeholders to define shared preservation goals. Public participation ensures community values are reflected in the plan.

How to get Involved

  • Work with your local government to initiate or update a historic preservation plan.
  • Advocate for local preservation ordinances that protect valuable resources and reflect community goals.
  • Get involved in public meetings and surveys to ensure your voice is part of the planning process. 
  • Partner with local organizations and historical societies to raise awareness and build support.

Planning for preservation is planning for the future. We can help your community protect the places that matter.

The Kentucky Heritage Council (KHC) assists local governments and communities in developing and implementing preservation programs. Communities that establish a strong foundation in preservation may also qualify as a Certified Local Government (Certified Local Government (CLG) Program - Kentucky Heritage Council), gaining access to additional training, funding, and technical support. KHC also helps with survey program, guidance on drafting historic preservation ordinances, National Register nominations, and public outreach and education tools. 

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Right now, KHC is developing the next 10-year State Historic Preservation Plan, and we want your voice to help guide it. This plan will set the course for how we identify, protect, and celebrate the historic places that make Kentucky distinct.  

Whether you are a lifelong Kentuckian, a preservation professional, or simply someone who loves old buildings and bluegrass charm. Your perspective matters. We want to hear what you value, where you think preservation in Kentucky should go next, and how we can better support communities across the Commonwealth.

Click below to take the survey and be part of planning Kentucky’s preservation future!

​​​​​Take the survey​​

You will be redirected to Survey Monkey to complete the 2028-2038 Kentucky’s Statewide Historic Preservation Plan Survey.

Questions?


Contact Nicole Roth, Site Identification Program Administrator
Email: nicole.roth@ky.gov​
Phone: 502-892-3606

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Resources for Preservation Planning


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