March 30, 2018

Credits & Benefits

Maryland Historic Trust (MHT)

The MHT is a program of Maryland State government housed in the Department of Planning. The Homeowner Tax Credit provides an opportunity for homeowners to earn up to 20% back on qualified and approved rehabilitation expenditures. The credit cannot exceed $50,000 in a two year period. Projects must be at least $5,000 to qualify for the tax credit. Your project must be reviewed and your application must be approved prior to commencing work. The review process is estimated to take approximately 30 to 45 days. While the state credit may be used in combination with other local jurisdictional credits the application, review, and approval are independent and can not be substituted.

Commission for Historical and Architectural Preservation (CHAP)

Baltimore City’s CHAP is responsible for the local historic preservation tax credit program and oversight of 33 local historic districts. CHAP helps preserve and revitalize neighborhoods, celebrates City history, and promotes historic preservation as a proven economic driver for Baltimore City. Established in 1996, Baltimore City’s Historic Tax Credit Program is designed for residential and commercial historic structures throughout Baltimore. The ten year comprehensive tax credit is granted based on the increased value of the property after qualifying rehabilitation. Applications must be pre-approved before work begins. Eligible properties must be located in a National Register or City Historic District (or be individually listed on the national register), or be a Baltimore City landmark. To qualify for the tax credit the project must be at least 25% of the initial full cash value of the property.   

Preservation Maryland

Located in Baltimore City, Preservation Maryland is committed to helping all Maryland residents preserve places of importance to their communities. This is accomplished through advocacy, technical assistance, strategic planning, partnership building, and resourcing. Preservation Maryland operates the   Heritage Fund which makes grants to assist in protecting and preserving historical and cultural resources in Maryland. Nonprofit organizations and local jurisdictions are legible to apply for grants for historic site, buildings, districts, objects, and archaeological resources. 

Baltimore City Historic Districts

CHAP Rules & Regulations & Design Guidelines

Federal Historic Tax Credit