Alabama Historic Preservation Resources
Supporting Birmingham and Historic Communities Across Alabama
Alabama’s architectural heritage ranges from Birmingham’s industrial-era commercial blocks to Mobile’s Creole townhouses and Montgomery’s early 20th-century neighborhoods. Across the state, preservation maintains the cultural identity of communities while safeguarding significant craftsmanship and materials — especially in windows, doors, and other historic building components.
Austin Historical is committed to supporting homeowners, architects, general contractors, and preservation boards throughout Alabama with guidance that ensures compliance, historical accuracy, and long-term durability.
For Homeowners
City of Birmingham – Design Review & Historic Preservation
Birmingham’s Design Review Committee oversees exterior changes within the city’s local historic districts and commercial revitalization areas. Property owners must obtain approval for any exterior work impacting historic character, including windows and doors.
Useful Links
Design Review Guidelines
Historic District Maps & Listings
Certificate of Appropriateness Requirements
Visit the site: Birmingham Design Review
Alabama Historical Commission (AHC)
The AHC administers Alabama’s preservation laws, provides technical assistance, maintains property listings, and oversees state historic tax incentives.
Visit the site: Alabama Historical Commission
Homeowner Incentives
Eligible residential properties may qualify for state and federal tax credits or for the Alabama Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit program.
Visit the site: Alabama Historic Tax Credit
Alabama Trust for Historic Preservation
A statewide nonprofit dedicated to preserving Georgia’s architectural heritage, offering financial assistance, awards, and educational resources for homeowners.
Visit the site: Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation
Main Street Alabama
Supports preservation-driven revitalization programs for downtowns and cultural districts across the state.
Visit the site: Main Street Alabama
For Preservation Professionals
Alabama State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)
Located within the Alabama Historical Commission, the SHPO provides Section 106 reviews, state/federal tax credit oversight, and technical guidance for restoration professionals.
Visit the site: Alabama State Historic Preservation Office
Resources for Professionals
Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation
Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program
State Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit
Architectural Surveys & Historic Contexts
Regional Commissions & Historic Districts
Mobile – Mobile Historic Development Commission
Montgomery – Montgomery Historic Preservation Commission
Huntsville – Huntsville Historic Preservation Commission
These entities maintain design guidelines, district boundaries, and COA requirements similar to Birmingham’s.
Explore Birmingham’s Historic Districts
Discover Birmingham’s most significant preservation areas via Google Maps:
Five Points South Historic District
Highland Avenue Historic District
Downtown Birmingham Commercial District
These districts often have strict standards for materials, profiles, glazing, and window/door configurations. Austin Historical’s team is experienced in meeting these requirements while preserving character and craftsmanship.
Partner with a Certified Preservation Expert
Austin Historical works closely with city officials, architects, general contractors, and preservation boards across Alabama to ensure your restoration meets local, state, and federal preservation standards. Whether your project involves wood sash restoration, steel window rehabilitation, or full replication, we provide expertise that blends historic accuracy with modern performance.
Serving Birmingham, Mobile, Montgomery, Huntsville, and historic towns across Alabama.
Contact Austin Historical – Birmingham Branch
AUSTIN
Historical