Historic Plaque Program

An Explanation of Historic Designation Categories

Buildings and other places in Pittsburgh may be eligible for three designations if their architectural and/or historic character is outstanding. Each designation is made by a separate organization with its own criteria, but in each case the intention is to distinguish and help preserve the places chosen.

PHLF Historic Landmark Plaques

In 1968, the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation began an Historic Landmark Plaque program to identify architecturally significant structures and designed landscapes throughout Allegheny County. Since 1968, Landmarks has awarded 525 Historic Landmark Plaques. An Historic Landmark plaque identifies the site as a significant part of our local heritage; it will not protect a building from alternation or demolition. Buildings, structures, districts, and landscapes may be approved for an Historic Landmark plaque if all of the following conditions are met:

• they are remarkable pieces of architecture, engineering, construction, landscape design, or planning, or impart a rich sense of history;
• alterations, additions, or deterioration have not substantially lessened their value in the above respects;
• they are at least 50 years old and are located in Allegheny County
• they are not located in historic districts bearing a plaque (unless of exceptional individual significance)

The Historic Plaque Designation Committee meets once a year to review all nominations and recommend awards. Landmarks’ Plaque Committee, comprised of several trustees, architectural historians, and knowledgeable citizens meets once a year to vote on submissions. If awarded, the plaque will be ordered by the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation. A Landmarks Trustee has funded this program so the cost of cast aluminum plaques are underwritten partially by Landmarks, however the cost of bronze plaques are the responsibility of the owner.
You may obtain more information, an application, and instructions by calling the Pittsburgh History & Landmarks Foundation at 1-412-471-5808.

You may also download a copy of the application and directions from this site.

Click to view or download the directions and plaque application—–> plaque_Application.pdf