Chicago Historic
Plaque Program
Helping homeowners recognize and celebrate the architectural and historical significance of their home.
Helping homeowners recognize and celebrate the architectural and historical significance of their home.
Why This Matters
Chicago's historic neighborhoods are defined not only by landmark buildings, but by the many individual homes that together create a distinctive architectural fabric. Each year, historic residences are lost to demolition, redevelopment, or significant alteration.
The Chicago Historic Plaque Program is designed to help homeowners and neighbors better understand the history of these properties — and recognize the importance of preserving them. Participating homeowners may receive a short researched summary of their home’s history, based on available records.
This pilot is expected to begin in selected historic areas of Lincoln Park, including the Sheffield Historic District and nearby historic residential blocks.
The Plaque
Each plaque is a cast bronze oval designed to be mounted on a building or displayed on a freestanding stake — a permanent recognition of the home's place in Chicago's history.
Sample rendering — final size, format, and wording subject to Preservation Chicago review.
Eligibility
The pilot is expected to focus on homes with documented historic or architectural significance. Final eligibility standards will be set by Preservation Chicago as the program develops. Potential factors include:
The age of the home connects it to architectural eras and significant events, and influences its historical context.
Properties that retain original or notable architectural features contributing to the historic streetscape.
Location within or near a recognized historic district, such as the Sheffield Historic District in Lincoln Park.
Connection to a notable original owner, builder, architect, or documented historic use of the property.
How It Works
The program is expected to follow these steps. Details remain subject to Preservation Chicago review as the pilot develops.
A homeowner expresses interest through this page or by contacting Preservation Chicago directly.
Preservation Chicago or a designated research assistant conducts an initial review to determine whether the property appears to qualify.
Basic historical information is researched or reviewed — including construction date, original owner or builder, and relevant historical context.
Proposed plaque wording is reviewed by Preservation Chicago before production to ensure consistency and accuracy.
The homeowner receives final cost information and payment instructions. Payment structure is still being determined.
Once approved and paid for, the plaque is produced and shipped to the homeowner or designated address.
Installation is expected to be handled by the homeowner. Mounting guidance will be provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The plaque is an educational and recognition marker only. It does not create landmark status, historic registry status, or any legal protection for the property.
No. The plaque itself does not create any legal protection against demolition or alteration. If you are concerned about your home's legal protection, Preservation Chicago can point you toward landmark designation resources.
The research and verification process is still being developed. Preservation Chicago expects to review key historical details — construction date, original owner or builder — before approving plaque production.
Homeowners may provide information and suggest wording, but final plaque language will be reviewed by Preservation Chicago for consistency and accuracy before production.
Installation is expected to be handled by the homeowner. Mounting guidance will be provided with the plaque.
Final pricing has not yet been determined. Cost will depend on plaque size, mounting option, production, shipping, taxes, and any research or administrative fee. Preservation Chicago will confirm pricing before the pilot launches.
Timing is still being developed. Preservation Chicago is currently reviewing program structure, website needs, vendor options, and homeowner interest. Submitting an expression of interest through this page helps the program move forward.
Express Interest
Preservation Chicago is currently gauging homeowner interest for the pilot program. Submitting this form does not commit you to participation or any cost. A representative will follow up as the program develops.
