Historic Sites Council

Until further notice, the Historic Sites Council will hold all meetings virtually. Read the current agenda for meeting details and links.

Introduction

The Historic Sites Council (HSC) reviews proposed encroachments at an open public meeting. This council weighs project factors, then recommends a final action to the DEP Commissioner. Our office acts as staff to the Historic Sites Council.

New Jersey Historic Sites Council By-Laws

Read the by-laws for the Historic Sites Council, last updated June 2019.

The meeting process

Notification

Both our office and the applicant provide public notice of the meeting.

Historic Preservation Office

The Secretary of State
The chief elected local official
Major circulation newspapers in the project area

Applicant

Property owners directly affected by the proposed project
Local historical societies and historic preservation commissions
Relevant local agencies concerned with historic preservation
Relevant Statewide preservation organizations.

Public presentation

At the meeting,

The applicant has the opportunity to present the application.
Interested members of the public have the opportunity to comment on the project.

Recommendation

The Council then makes a formal recommendation to the Commissioner. In considering the application, the Council evaluates:

Whether the undertaking is in conformance with criteria and standards.
The public benefit of the proposed undertaking.
Potential prudent and feasible alternatives.
The measures taken to avoid, minimize or mitigate the encroachment.

Attending a meeting

Location

Virtual. Specific meeting links will be posted in the agenda for each meeting.

Date/Time

Unless otherwise noted,

Third Thursday of the month

10:00 a.m.