To determine if a building is "historic" and exempt from certain requirements, what is one of the best approaches?

One of the best approaches to determine if a building is "historic" and may be exempt from certain requirements is to check if it is on an approved list of historic structures. Official lists, such as those maintained by the National Register of Historic Places or state and local preservation offices, provide clear criteria and documentation regarding the historical significance of a property. These listings are crucial because they are recognized entities that confirm the status of a structure.

This approach is reliable as it often considers various factors, including age, integrity, and historical importance, which are standardized and vetted through formal processes. Being on an approved list not only confirms a building's historical status but also provides guidance on the specific requirements and exemptions that might apply to that structure.

Other options, such as consulting local architects, assessing architectural style, or evaluating market value, may yield useful insights, but they do not provide the definitive and standardized validation that a formal list offers. Only official designations guarantee the recognized historic status necessary to apply for exemptions from some of the broader floodplain management requirements.