Historic Preservation Ordinance
On September 1, 2015, the Board of Supervisors recognized the importance of preserving the County’s distinctive architectural and cultural history by adopting the Historic Preservation Ordinance (“HPO”) that:
- Specifies criteria and procedures for the designation of landmarks and historic districts.
- Specifies criteria and procedures for reviewing proposed work on designated landmarks or on property within historic districts.
- Establishes penalties for unauthorized work, including demolition, on landmarks or historic district contributors.
- Requires maintenance of landmarks and historic district contributors to prevent deterioration.
- Prohibits work, including demolition, on property nominated but not yet designated as a landmark or historic district.
- Encourages adaptive reuse of landmarks and historic district contributors by providing relief from parking requirements.
- Provides for the enhancement of historic districts by the establishment of development guidelines and standards, and by allowing streetscape improvements that are compatible with the areas historic character.
Designation Criteria
Application Materials and Fees
Writing an Architectural Description Guide
Designation and Certificate of Appropriateness Procedures
HPO County Code
Registry of Landmarks and Historic Districts
Historic Districts Frequently Asked Questions