Are National Register properties protected from deterioration and demolition?
Unfortunately, no. Listing in the National Register is a great honor for a property, but it does not guarantee that the property will never be damaged or demolished. National Register listing provides protection only when public funds or government licenses are involved. Federal and state projects which might have an impact on these properties are reviewed by the Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission. Some communities offer additional protection to their historic places through their local zoning ordinance.
