The Town of Sullivan’s Island recognizes the value of preserving the Town's rich history for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations. The Town supports local historic preservation by designating properties recognized as important historic resources worthy of preservation as Sullivan’s Island Historic Landmarks and Traditional Island Resources. Sullivan’s Island is also home to four National Register Districts and three local historic districts.

Current Historic Projects

• Historic District Design Guidelines
• Historic Resource Survey Update

Historic Design Guidelines Chapters

• Cover Page & Index
• Chapter 1- Intro
• Chapter 2- Design Review in the Historic Overlay District
• Chapter 3- Historic and Architectural Development
• Chapter 4- Guidelines for Historic Buildings
• Chapter 5- Guidelines for Landscaping
• Chapter 6- New Constructions and Additions
• Chapter 7- Guidelines for Climate Adaptations
• Chapter 8- Relocation and Demolition
• Appendix A- The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation
• Appendix B- Terminology and Interpretation
• Appendix C- Glossary of Terms
• Appendix D- Financial Incentives for Historic Building Rehabilitation
• Appendix E- Alternative Materials for Rehabilitation and New Construction
• Appendix F- National Park Service Presentation Briefs
• Appendix G- Maintenance & Recommendations 

Frequently asked questions: 

Considering changes to your historic property?

• What is a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA)?   A COA is a zoning permit for completing work to a designated historic structure. A Building Permit is also required.
• Do I need a COA?  Any change to an historic property requires a COA.  
• What are the design standards for Sullivan’s Island? You can review the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for preserving, rehabilitating, restoring and reconstruction historic buildings here (PDF).
• Where do I get a COA Application (DRB process)? You can view our Cultural Resources Map.
• What are some interesting places to visit on Sullivan’s Island? You can view our Cultural Resources Map.
• Where are the Island’s Historic districts located? You can view our Historic Resources Map.
• Is my home in a district? You can determine that by viewing our Historic Resources Map.
• Where can I obtain a hard copy of the Historic Design Guidelines for review?  Copies are available for viewing (not distribution) at Town Hall and the Edgar Allan Poe Library located at 1921 I'On Avenue. 

National Register of Historic Places Documents: 

• Historic Resources of Sullivan’s Island Field Evaluation Map: Schneider Historic Preservation, LLC 2003
• National Register of Historic Places Nomination Documents
• Historic Designation List by Address (Local Historic Districts): Please contact the Sullivan's Island Planning and Building Department to verify historic status of all properties prior to purchasing a property or conducting work: 843-883-5727