A preservation easement is a legal instrument that provides enduring protection for an historic property. Residences, commercial structures, farmsteads, and formal gardens are a few examples of the types of historic properties protected by preservation easements. The historic property must be listed or be eligible for listing on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places.

A preservation easement donated to the New Jersey Historic Trust typically prohibits demolition and restricts unsympathetic changes to the exterior of a structure, and may extend similar protection to interior features or the surrounding landscape. An easement may also include provisions for public access and limitations on use.

An easement is recorded in deed form in the county land records. After the easement is recorded, a Historic Trust representative will inspect the property periodically--usually once a year--in order to ensure that the terms of the easement are upheld.

Advantages to the Donor
By donating an easement, a donor ensures the greatest possible protection of the historic character of the property. An easement granted in perpetuity lasts forever.

A donor might also may qualify for significant tax benefits. The value of an easement granted in perpetuity to a qualified organization can be deducted as a charitable contribution for federal income tax purposes.* Decreases in federal estate taxes and local property taxes may also result from the donation. In addition, tax benefits may be produced by combining rehabilitation tax credits with the donation of an easement.

Most significantly, easement donors contribute to the preservation of New Jersey's history for the appreciation of present and future generations.

In recognition of the public benefit provided by the gift, a donor will receive a bronze identification plaque for the property. This plaque will serve as permanent reminder that the historic character of the property is protected by the New Jersey Historic Trust.