Procedures for Historic Properties

Purpose 

This order transmits procedures for complying with Federal laws, regulations, orders, and directives for the use, protection and enhancement of historic and cultural properties under the jurisdiction, custody, or control of the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA).

Background

The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended (54 U.S.C. § 300101 et seq.), Executive Order 11593, Executive Order 12072, Executive Order 13006, and Executive Order 13287 direct all Federal agencies to: 

1. Administer the cultural properties under their custody and control in a spirit of stewardship, trusteeship and sustainability for future generations;
2. Initiate measures necessary to direct their policies, plans and programs in such a way that sites, structures and objects of historical, architectural or archeological significance under Federal jurisdiction, custody and control are preserved, restored and maintained for the inspiration and benefit of the people;
3. Establish programs for the identification, evaluation, protection, and nomination to the National Register of Historic Places of historic properties under agency custody or control;
4. Initiate procedures to promote the use of historic properties available to the agency, encourage location of Federal agencies in historic buildings and historic districts in central business areas, and overcome barriers to the use of historic properties;
5. Exercise caution during the interim period until inventories and evaluations required by subsection 3.c, above, are completed so that any federally owned property that might qualify for nomination is not inadvertently transferred, sold, demolished, or substantially altered without the benefit of appropriate consideration and procedures for external review and public participation provided under Federal law. 
6. Initiate measures and procedures to provide for the continued utility, appropriate care and enhanced sustainability of federally owned historic properties and  non-federally owned historic properties that agencies have an opportunity to lease or acquire, in accordance with the professional standards prescribed by the Secretary of the Interior; and
7. Establish procedures to monitor and report on the condition and use of historic properties under agency jurisdiction, custody and control, including archeological resources associated with Federal construction projects.

Applicability  

This order applies to all GSA programs, activities and actions that could affect historic and cultural properties.  This order is for guidance of Regional Historic Preservation Officers and all other GSA personnel engaged in activities affecting historic properties.

Cancellation 

ADM 1020.3, Procedures for Historic Properties, dated September 6, 2016, is canceled. 

Summary of Changes

1. Updated list of Federal laws and directives reflecting changes since 2016.
2. Added technical clarifications and updates regarding NHPA compliance agreements, compliance alternatives, and GSA resources supporting compliance. 
3. Expanded guidance reflecting the collaborative and complementary roles of GSA’s preservation and disposition programs in meeting compliance responsibilities for disposal of PBS and non-PBS real property. 
4. Added regulatory citations clarify the basis of GSA requirements regarding historic property identification, nomination of properties to the National Register, and resolution of adverse effects.
5. Referenced compliance resources now include GSA’s Historic Building Document Repository, providing centralized online access to building preservation plans, historic structure reports, National Register nominations, and other documents.
6. Added guidance concerning commemorative objects, site-specific art, and protection of vulnerable historic building materials.
7. Expanded guidance promoting tribal engagement, diversity, and sustainability.