New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission

The Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) is the New York City mayoral agency responsible for identifying and designating the City's landmarks and historic districts, and for regulating proposed changes to them. The Commission consists of 11 commissioners, all of whom are appointed by the Mayor, and a full-time staff. It is currently the largest municipal preservation agency in the United States. The Landmarks Preservation Commission was established in 1965 when Mayor Robert Wagner signed the Landmarks Law. The law was enacted in response to New Yorkers' growing concern that important pieces of New York City’s history were being needlessly lost. Events like the demolition of Pennsylvania Station, considered a civic masterpiece, increased public awareness of the need to protect the city's architectural, historical, and cultural heritage. The Landmarks Preservation Commission’s mission is to protect the special places and buildings that bring the City’s remarkable history and heritage to life, thus preserving them for future generations. This is accomplished through cooperative work with property owners, elected officials, and community groups.