Casselman River Bridge.

The Maryland Historical Trust encourages agencies and recipients of federal and state assistance to initiate historic preservation consultation during preliminary project planning. Early consultation allows time to successfully complete the review in advance of construction and may help facilitate permit or funding approvals. Review this page and the e106 User Guide for details on how to request MHT's comments for a state or federal project.

Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act and the Maryland Historical Trust Act of 1985 require federal and state agencies to consider the effects of their projects on historic and archaeological properties through a consultation process known as "Section 106" review. The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT), Maryland's State Historic Preservation Office, plays a key role in Section 106. The review process involves consultation among the agency (or its designee), project sponsor, MHT, and other participants. Through consultation, the agency must identify and evaluate historic properties that may be affected by a project and develop measures to avoid, reduce or mitigate any adverse effects on those properties. Click on the link below for more information on applicable laws and guidance pertaining to Section 106.

» Applicable Laws and Regulations

The project review process applies to undertakings conducted or assisted by a state or federal agency, including actions that receive financial funds, permits or licenses from the agency. Any person, organization, business entity, or local government seeking state or federal assistance for a project may need to consult with MHT. Projects may include actions with federal or state grants, permits from the Corps of Engineers, state bond bill grants, a license from the FCC for telecommunications installations, or other actions with state or federal involvement. Note that FCC applicants must use the FCC E106 system for submittals, see the link below for further guidance.

» FCC Applicants

To initiate MHT review, use the MHT e106 system to submit a cover letter and required attachments, as applicable to the proposed undertaking:

• A cover letter/memo with a detailed description of the proposed project, noting the nature of the state and/or federal involvement;
• A map (Google map or aerial photo) clearly showing the location and boundaries of the project area and more detailed site plans, if appropriate;
• Labeled photographs (digital or scanned) of the project site including images of buildings and structures located within the project area, preferably keyed to a site plan;
• Drawings and/or a written scope of work illustrating any plans to construct, demolish, or rehabilitate buildings or other structures;
• If applicable, an agency coversheet or letter with a signature block for MHT comments and concurrence; and
• Any additional information that may be relevant for historic preservation review (such as the views of the public, local government approvals, etc.).

MHT tracks all submittals through its e106 system and strives to provide its comments within 30 days. Providing MHT with detailed and accurate information greatly facilitates MHT's review and decreases response time. The Project Reviewers page identifies likely staff assignments for each agency and geographic area. Project sponsors and consultants contacting MHT on behalf of an agency should clearly identify the responsible state or federal agency. Use MHT's Search the Compliance Log or check your e106 dashboard to find out the status of a review.

Certain local jurisdictions administer their own historic preservation review process. Local reviews are handled independently from the Section 106 process but may generate helpful information to inform Section 106 consultation. MHT encourages agencies and project sponsors to coordinate the local review process in advance of Section 106 consultation. If you anticipate state or federal involvement in a project, agencies and project sponsors must consult with MHT prior to the commencement of archaeological investigations, building renovations, demolition, or construction activities, including those that have been required or approved by a local jurisdiction.

MHT also reviews projects on properties on which it holds a preservation easement or those for which owners are applying for state or federal rehabilitation tax credits or MHT grants. If these situations apply to your property, see these links for more information.

For questions or further assistance, contact the Project Review and Compliance Unit by email at mht.section106@maryland.gov.