The Historic Preservation Commission has the following responsibilities:

• Issue certificates of appropriateness for eligible activities identified in the City's Historic Preservation Ordinance.
• Conduct or administer an ongoing survey to identify historically and architecturally significant areas, sites, structures, and landmarks.
• Make recommendations for designation of landmarks or new or expanded districts to the Planning Board.
• Advise the City Council, Planning Board, and City Departments regarding the protection of historic landmarks and districts.
• Review and make recommendations regarding all national register proposals for properties and districts within the City.
• Assist in the development of relevant sections of the City's Comprehensive Plan pertaining to historic resources and historic preservation.
• Educate and inform the citizens and property owners in Biddeford concerning the historic and architectural heritage of the City.

The Board shall consist of seven members, five voting members and two associate members, each a resident of the City of Biddeford. Each member shall be nominated by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council for a three year-term. The Mayor shall have the discretion of appointing members and associate members to the Commission with terms expiring after two years but less than three years for the purpose of staggering appointments throughout a calendar year.