Orlando Eases Historic Protections to Jumpstart Downtown Redevelopment
On June 22, 2026, the Orlando City Council passed Ordinance No. 2026-18 (the “Ordinance”). It creates a three-year window, starting August 10, 2026, during which owners may take advantage of a streamlined review process for demolishing, renovating, or restoring historic properties in the Downtown Historic Preservation (HP) Overlay District.
What Properties Qualify for Exemption?
The Ordinance applies to “Exempt Historic Landmarks” and structures located within the Downtown HP Overlay District. Exempt Historic Landmarks are properties that meet all three of the following: (1) designated as a Historic Landmark by City Council under specific 1978 or 1987 ordinances; (2) located entirely within the Downtown HP Overlay District; and (3) the property owner has applied to the City’s Planning Office to have the property designated as an Exempt Historic Landmark under the Ordinance.
What Changes for Three Years?
- Demolition review is streamlined, not eliminated: Demolition review is now an administrative process. Demolition of qualifying properties no longer requires a demolition permit from the Historic Preservation Board. Instead, property owners only need to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness for demolition through the Minor Review Process. The planning official or a designee of the Historic Preservation Board will oversee this review administratively.
- Simpler review for renovations and restorations: With the adoption of the Ordinance, now most exterior work on qualifying properties require only a Minor Certificate of Appearance Approval which is issued administratively. This process is simpler than the previously required full Certificate of Appropriateness review by the Historic Preservation Board.
What’s Next?
The City Council views this Ordinance as a key step in revitalizing downtown Orlando. The Ordinance is part of the broader DTO Action Plan, an initiative aimed at making downtown more walkable and vibrant. It offers streamlined development opportunities for qualifying properties.
To determine whether your property qualifies or to learn more about future DTO Action Plan implementation, please contact Rebecca Wilson, Land Use Practice Group Co-Chair at Lowndes.
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