"Q: Who decides what can or can't be done to homes with historical plaques?

A: "The reference to the historic plaque is vague because properties with a plaque may not necessarily be located within the city of Wilmington or within a locally designated historic district," said Ron Satterfield, Wilmington planning manager.

Historic plaques are issued by the Historic Wilmington Foundation. Without knowing the specific location of the property and the nature of the historic plaque, it's difficult to give a specific answer, Satterfield said.

He said that generally, if a house is located in a local historic district in the city of Wilmington, the Historic Preservation Commission reviews changes to the exterior of structures.

If a house is a locally designated landmark, the HPC reviews changes to the exterior of structures and certain designated interior features."

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Star News (1/2/2012)