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historic preservation

The Wedge Neighborhood Historic District
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About the District

History

The Wedge Neighborhood Historic District was established on May 24, 2011 by City Council Ordinance #27981, in response to a request submitted in 2008 by neighborhood residents. 

The Wedge Neighborhood is significant in its representation of a pre-WWII middle class Tacoma neighborhood, and the profiles of its residents, which cut across professions and background, tell a typical story of an emerging community. 

The original Wedge settlers were a very diverse group of people from all walks of life, from many parts of the country, and from many other parts of the world. Many of these early residents were born in Germany, Sweden, Norway and England. They brought their languages, foods, culture and religions. included professionals, laborers, merchants and the clergy. Some owners of large homes took in boarders and extended-family members. The population included pioneers, successful merchants and businessmen, European immigrants, westward travelers, as well as professionals and civil servants.

Wedge Neighborhood Historic District Requirements

What Gets Reviewed?

If your house is located within the boundaries of the historic district (download map), then changes to the exterior of your property may require design review by the Historic Preservation Officer and the Landmarks Preservation Commission if permits are required, as required in TMC 13.07.360. This includes changes to windows, siding, additions, chimneys, porches and decks.

A project generally requires Landmarks Preservation Commission review, if:

…It is a new construction project or demolition; or 
…It involves a contributing historic structure, AND 
…It involves exterior work, AND 
…It requires a building permit.

Certain types of projects are exempt from these requirements, including:

…Projects that affect only non-contributing structures and nonresidential structures;
…Projects that do not require a City Building permit; 
…Projects on the interior of a building;
…Plumbing, sewer, electrical, or landscaping projects.

 

What is the Process?

The Landmarks Preservation Commission reviews applications for changes during their regular meetings.

Applications are available on this site in the Design Review section, or by clicking the Quick Links menu on the top right of this page.

Design Guidelines

Wedge Neighborhood and North Slope Historic District Design Guidelines

Wedge Neighborhood Conservation District

The Wedge Neighborhood Conservation District is intended to “buffer” the core historic district from impacts resulting from development in the surrounding area.  The Conservation District therefore has fewer design review requirements.

The following projects require Landmarks Preservation Commission review and approval:

  • Demolition of an entire building

  • Construction of a new building

Financial Incentives

Houses undergoing substantial rehabilitation may qualify for the Special Tax Valuation program, a property tax incentive which can reduce your property tax assessment.

 
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