The purpose of Raleigh Historic Landmark designation is to recognize and preserve the character of the city's historic resources. The Raleigh Historic Development Commission (RHDC) may propose the addition of a property to the roll of officially designated Raleigh Historic Landmarks, whether generated by property owners, residents interested in preservation, or the city itself. During this process the commission reviews the nomination for historical and/or architectural significance prior to presentation to the City Council for potential designation.

Such designation carries with it a 50% Wake County property tax deferral and the right for RHDC to review exterior changes as described by local ordinance and RHDC Design Guidelines. RHDC staff is available to assist owners in the designation of their property as a Raleigh Historic Landmark as well as in planning changes to a designated property. They can also help with problems unique to historic structures such as deterioration from moisture infiltration, finding hard-to-locate materials, and providing information on building technologies and techniques no longer used.

Procedures and guidelines for landmark designation are established in the Raleigh Unified Development Ordinance Sec. 10.2.16.