Historic preservation programs in Reno and Truckee maintain records, inventories, and guidelines for buildings older than 50 years. While the Historic Reno Preservation Society is a recognized resource for local history, the City of Reno and the Town of Truckee provide the official frameworks for identifying, evaluating, and protecting historic resources.
Reno Historic Preservation
The City of Reno’s historic preservation program focuses on the identification and protection of significant buildings, sites, and landscapes. Historic resources in Reno generally include properties that have endured on the landscape for at least 50 years. These properties are often linked to specific architectural movements or events in the city’s development.
The City of Reno maintains a map of properties evaluated for historic significance, which also displays boundaries of previous survey projects. The Historical Resources Commission, consisting of 5-7 commissioners appointed by the City Council, administers the city's historic preservation ordinance.
Visitors interested in self-guided exploration can utilize the Reno Historical App, which is listed as an official resource by the City of Reno. For those traveling between Reno and the mountain communities, road conditions can impact access to historic sites. Check I-80 road conditions or SR-431 Mt Rose road conditions before planning a trip.
Truckee Historic Preservation
Truckee manages its historic resources through the Historic Preservation Advisory Commission (HPAC). This commission is a citizens' advisory body that meets at 8 a.m. on the second Wednesday of every month in the Council Chambers.
Truckee’s historic inventory, completed in 2003, categorizes buildings and structures in the downtown area older than 50 years:
- Category A (Essential): Buildings that are the town's best examples of history and are individually eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places.
- Category B (Contributory): Buildings that contribute significantly to the historic character of downtown and are eligible for National Register listing if a district is established.
- Category C (Supporting): Buildings that do not meet strict National Register criteria but still enhance the historic character of the community.
- Category D (Non-Essential): Buildings older than 50 years that have been significantly altered or are in poor condition, no longer conveying their history.
The Town of Truckee provides a Historic Resources Inventory Summary Table for checking the status of specific properties. For inquiries, contact the Planning Division at 530-582-7700 or via email at [email protected].
Accessing Historic Districts
Travel to historic districts in the region often requires navigating mountain passes. Winter weather can restrict access to both Reno and Truckee. Before departing, verify the status of major routes:
Cameras on the primary routes to Truckee and Reno.
Preservation Guidelines
Both jurisdictions enforce strict guidelines for modifications to historic properties. In Truckee, exterior modifications to properties within the Historic Preservation Overlay District typically require a Historic Design Review application. Some minor work, such as specific types of painting or signage, may be exempt from HPAC review under the "streamlining" guidelines.
Reno’s preservation efforts are governed by Chapter 18 of the Reno Municipal Code, which aims to protect the historic integrity of the city for residents and visitors. The City of Reno also provides resources for historic homeowners through the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the National Park Service.
For travelers moving between these historic areas, ensure your route is clear by monitoring I-80 webcams and SR-267 road conditions for the most direct path between Reno and Truckee. For those heading toward the lake, SR-28 road conditions provide updates on access to North Shore historic sites.