Every building and landscape tells a story—and when we look at a neighborhood as a whole, those stories weave together into a record of community history. Reconnaissance level surveys (RLSs) capture this history by systematically documenting large groups of buildings across a community. As the most basic approach to historic survey work in Utah, they serve as a “first cut,” identifying buildings and districts that may be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places.
While RLSs focus on visual evaluation—rather than detailed historical research—they establish a broad foundation for understanding what exists today, how neighborhoods are changing, and what the next steps for preservation should be.
Logan RLS Eligibility Map
Documenting Change Over Time
A reconnaissance level survey acts like a snapshot of the built environment. By recording building materials, styles, and conditions, these surveys help us track how neighborhoods evolve. They show us where historic character has been preserved, where alterations have occurred, and even where buildings have been lost. Layered together, these records create a timeline that illustrates the shifting architectural and cultural landscape of a community.
Millcreek Reconnaissance Level Survey
A Tool for Planning and Preservation
Beyond documentation, reconnaissance level surveys serve as a critical tool for decision-making. Communities and preservation professionals use them to identify potential historic districts, evaluate boundaries, and determine which structures may qualify for protection. By providing a comprehensive view, surveys help ensure that preservation strategies are rooted in context, balancing growth with respect for heritage.
Millcreek Reconnaissance Level Survey
Public Access and Transparency
One of the most powerful aspects of reconnaissance level surveys is that the data is available to everyone. The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) maintains a GIS database that maps historic resources across Utah. These records go beyond simple listings—they include photographs, construction dates, information about additions, building materials, floor plan styles, and even notes on demolished structures. This level of detail makes the surveys an invaluable resource for residents, planners, researchers, and anyone curious about the history of their neighborhood.
Why Reconnaissance Level Surveys Matters Today
Reconnaissance level surveys do more than preserve the past—they inform the future. By identifying existing resources, they support sustainable planning practices that reuse and adapt what already exists. They also strengthen community identity, helping residents see their neighborhood not just as a collection of buildings, but as a living story shaped by generations.
