How does the new law affect easements that protect both conservation and historic preservation values?
The new law tightens the rules for easements on “certified historic structures.” If you are protecting a property that includes such a structure (e.g. a farm with a historic stone barn that is listed in the National Register) these new regulations may apply to you. Donors and donees of easements protecting historic structures need to understand the new rules, which include a filing fee for donors and specific appraisal requirements. Some of the new rules apply to historic structure easements donated as early as July 25, 2006. Any donor who has donated a historic preservation easement since that date should be made aware of the new rules.
