
The
North Slope Historic Special Review District, with more than 950 properties, is one of the largest historic districts in the country. It was listed on the Tacoma Register in 1994 (expanded in 1996 and 1999), as well as the Washington State and National Registers of Historic Places in 2003.This district was created in response to an initiative from residents who valued the atmosphere these historic homes create. Few homes in the district are high-style; instead the neighborhood is composed primarily of middle class Victorian, Craftsman, Colonial Revival, and Foursquare houses. They represent a collection of Pacific Northwest versions of the residential architecture popular in the United States prior to World War II.Current residents still take great pride in their historic homes and beautiful streets as they enjoy the traditional neighborhood lifestyle. Street signs mark the extent of the district, which extends from North I Street to North Grant Avenue, and between Division Avenue and Steele Street, along the angle where Tacoma's street grid follows the shoreline and links Old Town (developed in the 1870s) with New Tacoma which was built to meet the railroad line in the 1890s.
North Slope Historic Special Review District Requirements - What Gets Reviewed?
If your house is located within the boundaries of the historic district, then changes to the exterior of your property may require design review by the Landmarks Preservation Commission if permits are required, as stated in TMC 13.07.360. This includes changes to windows, siding, additions, chimneys, porches, and decks.
Your project will require Landmarks Preservation Commission review if:
- It is a new construction project or demolition
- It involves a contributing historic structure
- It involves exterior work
- It requires a building permit
Projects are exempt from Landmarks Commission review if:
- The project does not require a permit
- The project does not involve any exterior work
- The project involves plumbing, sewer, electrical, or landscaping work
Nomination Forms
Tacoma Register Nomination Forms
1994 Nomination

1996 Expansion

1999 Expansion

National Register Nomination
2016 National Register Amendment

Additional Links
Wedge Neighborhood and North Slope Historic District Design Guidelines
North Slope Buildings Inventory

The North Slope Historic District Organization