NEW ORLEANS – Mayor LaToya Cantrell signed City ordinances 33,777 and 33,778, which call for steep fines for unauthorized demolitions within the New Orleans’ or Central Business District’s Historic District Landmark Commission (HDLC) boundaries. The ordinances update the City Code to bring them in line with HB193, introduced by State Representative Aimee Freeman, which was part of the City’s state legislative agenda.
“These ordinances are an important component of my administration’s efforts to preserve our city’s unique and historic architecture, something our city is known far and wide for,” said Mayor Cantrell. “Our previous fine structure wasn’t enough of a deterrent to unauthorized demolitions of our historic buildings, so I am glad to sign these ordinances into law today as a way of keeping New Orleans’ history alive for future generations to enjoy.”
These two ordinances increase fines for unauthorized demolitions of historic buildings within HDLC’s areas. Fines could range from $10,000 to $25,000, or 15 percent of the structure’s value.
“I was proud to carry this legislation at the state level on behalf of Mayor Cantrell and the HDLC,” said Aimee Freeman, state representative for District 98. “I have experienced, first-hand, the damage illegal demolitions can impose on the historic fabric of our neighborhoods. Increasing this fine means ‘bad actors’ will think twice before demolishing historic structures.”
Property owners who demolish buildings without proper permits will face these increased fines starting on Aug. 1, 2022, when the law goes into effect.
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