Can buildings be demolished in a local historic district?
A building may be torn down if it poses a threat to the health and safety of residents as determined by a code enforcement official. For buildings that are in sound condition, preservation ordinances may have restrictions ranging from demolition delays to elaborate multipart tests. In general, if the structure is not contributing to the local historic district then demolition will probably be allowed. If the property is contributing and residential, the issue may then be whether the property can be put to a reasonable beneficial use without the approval of the demolition. If no, then the demolition will probably be allowed. If yes, then the next issue is whether the applicant will suffer economic hardship by denying the demolition. If the property is contributing and is income producing, the issue may be whether the owner can obtain a reasonable return from the building. Reasonable return may not be the highest and best use of the property. If no, then the demolition will be allowed. I
