MPPF Requirements

State Register Listing

To qualify for MPPF funds, a property must be listed in the State Register of Historic Places (SRHP). The SRHP is the official state list of cultural resources that deserve preservation consideration.

The SRHP comprises eight different types of local, state, and federal designations. Common designations include National Historic Landmarks, National Register properties, and local historic districts.

Most State Register listings come from National Register nominations. However, the MHC can only accept National Register nominations from communities that have completed a comprehensive survey of their historic properties.

National Register listing requires substantial lead time, so make sure to start any unlisted property nomination procedures well ahead of the next grants cycle.
You can list properties individually, or as contributing elements of a National Register District.

Contact us to see if your community has a comprehensive survey, or to start the evaluation process for listing on the National Register. Check your property for State Register status before applying for grant funds.

Request Amounts

Grant requests amounts vary, depending on the project type.

You can request between $5,000-$30,000 for pre-development projects.
You can request between $7,500-$100,000 for development or acquisition projects.

Any work completed prior to grant award is ineligible for funding consideration.

Preservation Restrictions

Preservation Restrictions protect historic and archaeological properties from inappropriate changes. Current and future owners of any property with a Preservation Restriction can’t alter a specified portion of that building, structure, or site.

Restrictions can either last for a few years or in perpetuity, and are included as part of the property deed. They can be donated or purchased by a government body or private preservation organization, and are enforced by the holder of the restriction.

Charitable donations of easements on historical buildings or archaeological sites may qualify for federal income tax deductions.

Selection Criteria

Level of historical significance of the property
Potential for loss or destruction of the property
Administrative and financial management capabilities of the applicant
Appropriateness of proposed work for the property
Demonstrated financial need
Extent of public support and benefit from users, professionals, and community leaders
Consistency with state and local preservation and community revitalization plans
Use of traditional materials and building techniques
Geographic distribution and first-time grant for community/project