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Historic & Heritage Resources
Loudoun County's Department of Planning and Zoning helps preserve Loudoun County's historic and cultural resources by:
- Reviewing development applications and archaeological surveys
- Administering Historic and Cultural Conservation Districts and Historic Roadways District
- Supporting the county's Heritage Commission and Historic District Review Committee
- Implementing the Heritage Preservation Plan and Historic Guidelines
Loudoun County has over 1,500 recorded archaeological sites that include both prehistoric Native American sites and early European domestic and industrial sites. The majority of archaeological investigation that occurs in Loudoun County is directly linked to both county and federal requirements related to land development projects.
Development Applications
For most types of development applications, an archaeological survey is required to determine if the proposed development will negatively impact significant historic and archaeological sites.
- Archaeological reports must be submitted to the county for review
- Archaeological survey and reporting must meet professional standards set forth by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources
- Refer to "Guidelines for Archaeological Investigation in Virginia"
The Department of Planning and Zoning:
- Reviews archaeological reports and makes recommendations for preservation or impact mitigation per Article 6, Section 6 to 300 of the Revised 1993 Loudoun County Zoning Ordinance
The Department of Building and Development:
- Reviews archaeological reports and makes recommendations for preservation or impact mitigation per sections 7.800, 7.810, and 8.102 of the Facilities Standards Manual
In 2002 and 2003, the Loudoun County Board of Supervisors contracted with History Matters to survey historic resources related to the history of African Americans in Loudoun County, Virginia.
As a result of the survey, the Virginia Department of Historic Resources determined that seven of the African-American communities are eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places: Bowmantown, Brownsville, Howardsville, Murphy's Corner, St. Louis, Watson, and Willisville.
The Heritage Preservation Plan outlines strategies for identifying, preserving and promoting Loudoun County's heritage resources in three major ways:
- Community education
- Heritage tourism
- Resource protection
The plan recommends implementation steps, such as the creation of a Heritage Commission and a Heritage Register.
More Information
If you would like more information, please email the Loudoun County Department of Planning and Zoning or call 703-777-0246.