Within the Downtown Lowell Historic District (DLHD), the erection, demolition, or alteration of any exterior feature (and interior when work affects the exterior appearance) of a building, structure, or parcel requires the approval of the Lowell Historic Board (LHB).  By state law, no City department, board, commission, or other entity can issue any approval until the LHB has first issued its approval.

 The DLHD was established on December 13, 1983 as part of Board’s statute (Lowell Historic District Act, Chapter 566, Acts of 1983).  The boundaries of the district were subsequently expanded in February 1986 under procedures set forth in the Board’s statute.  Creation of the district was a key element of the establishment of Lowell National Historical Park and seeks to ensure that development activities within the district are consistent with the preservation of its 19^th century setting.

 The boundaries of the DLHD encompasses much of Lowell’s downtown area including the commercial district, millyards, and canal system.