The Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts (formerly the Pioneer Theater-Auditorium) was listed on the City of Reno Register of Historic Places in 2020. It was built in 1967 on the site of the Old State Building which was demolished in 1966 to make way for the theater. Photo Credit: Susie Lang, #RenoLens

Q: Is there a walking tour map of historic resources, and how do I get one?

A: There's now an app for that! Visit Reno Historical. From the website, “Reno Historical is a free mobile app that puts Reno history at your fingertips, allowing you to explore the people, places, and moments that have shaped the city’s history. Learn about the history of Reno through layered, map-based, multimedia presentations, use social media to share your stories, and experience curated historical tours of the city. It is a work in progress, so be sure to check in frequently for new tours and stories.”

Q: Who do I contact if I have a question about my historic property?

A: Contact Melissa Hafey, Management Assistant in the Arts and Culture Department, at hafeym@reno.gov or 775-334-2253.

Q: Are there any grants, loans, tax incentives, or other ways to help finance improvements to my historic structure?

A: Buildings included on the National Register of Historic Places may be eligible for a federal tax incentive for rehabilitation if the building is used for income-producing purposes. View more information about this program at the Nevada State Historic Preservation Office website.

The Historic Reno Preservation Society administers the Reno Heritage Fund to support exterior historic home improvements and special heritage projects. 

The Nevada Commission for Cultural Centers and Historic Preservation (CCCHP) provides grants for the rehabilitation of historic buildings that will be used as cultural centers. 

The National Trust for Historic Preservation offers grants and loans to non-profit organizations and has established an insurance program for owners of historic houses.

Q: How do I go about registering my historic structure on the City of Reno Register of Historic Places?

A: Generally, if your property is 50 years old or older, it may be eligible for listing on the City Register of Historic Places. The Historical Resources Commission (HRC) may make exceptions for outstanding examples of certain architectural styles or places associated with important people in Reno's history. Visit the City of Reno Register of Historic Places page for more information.

Q: What happens after my property is listed on the city, state, or national Register? Am I still free to make changes to it?

A: If your property is listed on the city register, you can make interior changes to your building. To maintain the integrity of the City of Reno Register of Historic Places, City planning code will likely require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for exterior changes to the building, including alterations to features such as masonry walls, fences, light fixtures, steps, pavement, and advertising signs. Other changes that require a Certificate of Appropriateness include altering, moving, or partially demolishing a historic property or construction of additions or another structure in the vicinity or on property adjacent to the historic building. The COA process is simple and is designed to help you preserve the historic character of your property. The vast majority of COAs are approved. Access the COA form.

Q: What are the benefits of listing a property on a historic register?

A: Listing a historic resource on a historic register has many benefits.  

• Recognition that the historic resource is significant to our shared history at the national, state, or local level.
• Encourages the preservation of historic resources by documenting their history and significance.
• Assistance with preservation issues from historic preservation commissions and agencies such as the HRC or the Nevada State Historic Preservation Office.
• Consideration in the planning for state and federal projects or projects that are assisted by state or federal agencies.
• State and federal preservation grants, when available, for planning and rehabilitation of buildings owned by not-for-profit organizations and local governments.
• There may be federal tax credits available to you if the historic property is rehabilitated and is income-producing. Learn more about Historic Preservation Tax Credits.
• Listing a resource on the National or State Registers of Historic Places does not restrict the rights of property owners or require that properties be maintained, repaired, or restored. However, a listing on the City of Reno Register of Historic Places does provide some protection for the building’s exterior appearance and integrity and allows for a public hearing and mitigation efforts before a designated historic resource can be demolished. 

Q: Where and when does the HRC meet?

A: Visit the Historical Resources Commission webpage for the latest information about meeting times and agendas.

Q: How can I get involved with preservation efforts in Reno?

A: There are several ways that you can be involved in historic preservation in Reno, from simply taking a walk around a historic neighborhood to nominating a resource to a historic register, preservation is carried out by ordinary people who care about conserving our shared heritage.

• Visit Historic Reno Preservation Society to learn more about Reno’s historic resources or find a walking tour.
• Learn how to care for a historic property.
• Read more about adding a property or neighborhood to a historic register or creating a conservation district.
• Attend a meeting of the HRC.
• Visit the Nevada Historical Society.