Historic District
The Comstock Historic District Commission (CHDC) is a state agency under the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, within the State Historic Preservation Office. The Commission operates under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 384 and Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) 384.
Commission Responsibilities
The Commission helps preserve the historic character and integrity of the Comstock Historic District, a nationally recognized landmark that includes parts of Virginia City, Gold Hill, and Dayton (Lyon County).
Within the district boundaries, the Commission reviews all changes to the exterior of properties, whether commercial, residential, or industrial, to ensure they align with the area’s historic character.
If you are planning new construction or changes to an existing structure, you must first apply for review by the Commission. A Certificate of Appropriateness is required before any work can begin.
What Requires Review
Exterior work that typically requires Commission review includes (but is not limited to):
Buildings
Fences
Lighting
Paint colors
Paving
Permanent signs
Sheds
Walls
Because the Comstock Historic District is designated as a National Historic Landmark, property owners may be eligible for state and federal tax incentives to help rehabilitate historic buildings.
Resources
District Map and Application Forms:
Access the most up-to-date Comstock Historic District boundary map and download Certificate of Appropriateness application forms on the Commission’s official webpage.Design Guidelines and Construction Standards:
View or download the Commission’s design guidelines and construction standards here.State and Federal tax incentives:
View information about historic preservation tax incentives available to property owners on the Nevada State Historic Preservation Office’s website here.
Contact the Comstock Historic District Commission
Comstock History Center
20 N. “E” Street
P.O. Box 128
Virginia City, NV 89440
Phone: 775-847-0281
Email: shpo-info@shpo.nv.gov