Historic District Overview

Historic District Overview

The City of Northville recognizes that its unique and historic architectural character is worthy of preservation. In 1972, it conducted a survey of historic properties and structures. The Historic Preservation Ordinance was adopted by Northville City Council in 1974. A second, more intensive-level survey of historic properties was conducted in 2018.

The purpose of the Historic Preservation Ordinance is to:

  • Safeguard the heritage of the City of Northville by preserving a district, which reflects elements of its cultural, social, economic, political and architectural history.
  • Stabilize and improve property values in the district.
  • Foster civic beauty.
  • Strengthen the local economy.
  • Promote the use of historic districts for the education, pleasure and welfare of the citizens of the city.
The Northville Historic District Commission is charged with reviewing plans for construction, alteration, moving, exterior changes, exterior paint colors, or the demolition of all buildings in the Historic District.

The City Council and the Northville Historic District Commission determined that standards and guidelines would be useful and instrumental in the preservation of residential and commercial structures in the Historic District.

City Council has adopted the Historic District Design Standards for use and application within the Northville Historic District.