Historic Marker Program

About the Historic Marker Program

The Historic Marker Program Policy was adopted by the Town of Wake Forest Board of Commissioners on August 17, 2021.

The program is administered by the Wake Forest Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) and the Planning Department. During the public outreach portion of the Northeast Community Plan, members of the community expressed a desire to raise awareness about the rich history of the Northeast Community even if the buildings are no longer standing. Implementation of a historic marker program is an appropriate way to identify historical sites and educate the public of their significance. Each site selected for a historical marker must hold special significance to the rich heritage of the Town of Wake Forest. Applications may be submitted any time throughout the year. However, the deadline for the November approval meeting is September 1 of each year.

Annual Historic Marker Selection Process

All Historic Marker Applications will be submitted electronically through the electronic plan review portal to Historic Preservation Planning staff. Staff will review the applications and prepare them for the Historic Marker Selection Meeting. The Historic Preservation Commission will review all applications and hear presentations at their regular November meeting. Once the Historic Preservation Commission approves the markers in November, staff will finalize text and order the markers. Unfortunately, supply chain issues have delayed the fabrication of the markers. The Town will coordinate with the applicants to install the markers and hold unveiling ceremonies for each marker upon receipt. 

Application Process

The deadline to submit an application for a historic marker is September 1. Applications are electronic and can be accessed by the Town's Electronic Plan Review Process. There is no cost to submit an application.

Once you enter the Electronic Plan Review Portal, follow these steps (Note: you must set up a log in to use the system):

1. Click on “Submit a New Planning Application”
2. Select Wake County
3. Select “Planning/Developmental Services”
4. From the drop-down menu, select Historic Marker Application - Workflow, select Historic Marker
5. The subdivision/area is the site name/property address
6. Complete the instructions and provide as much information as possible so staff can review the project. You are able to upload scanned documents and photographs in pdf or jpg.
7. Submit Application

Approved Historic Markers