California Historical Building Code

THE OFFICE of HISTORIC PRESERVATION

Computer lists of the National Register and California Register

LOCAL PLANNING OFFICE

The planning department is most usually the best place to find local lists.

LOCAL HERITAGE or HISTORY COMMISSION

These governmental organizations can create and have a list. Local neighborhood or preservation organizations: these groups may have access to official lists, but can't create official lists.

LOCAL NEIGHBORHOOD or PRESERVATION ORGANIZATIONS

These groups may have access to official lists, but can't create official lists.

LOCAL, STATE and FEDERAL AGENCIES THAT PROMULGATE PROJECTS

Many agencies that create, fund and accomplish capital projects are subject to the California Environmental Quality Act. One of the processes of the California Environmental Quality Act is to identify and declare eligibility for all historical properties that could be affected by the project. Properties identified in those projects and declared eligible are “qualified.” Those lists are usually not distributed widely. Contact any agency that may have had a project in your vicinity. The environmental divisions of Caltrans, Department of Water Resources, Department of General Services/Real Estate Services Division, local water agencies, and local public works departments are places to query.

OTHER OPTIONS

Petition your local jurisdiction for an individual designation, create a NR nomination and apply to the Office of Historic Preservation, or petition the Office of Historic Preservation for a finding of eligibility.

This is a study of the historical building, structure or property that identifies the history, style, construction, the historically significant and character defining features and fabric and often includes a description of the condition of the structure interior and exterior.

PRESERVATION BRIEF 17 – ARCHITECTURAL CHARACTER

Identifying the Visual Aspects of Historic Buildings as an Aid to Preserving Their Character. Lee H. Nelson, FAIA.

This booklet provides essential guidance to help property owners and architects identify those features of historic buildings that give the building its visual character so that their preservation can be maximized in rehabilitation. 12 pages. 27 illustrations. 1988. Please visit the National Park Service, Technical Preservation Services to access this information.

THE WALK THROUGH – LEARN TO IDENTIFY THE VISUAL CHARACTER OF A HISTORIC BUILDING

The web “Walk Through” service is specifically designed to help owners, architects, developers, maintenance personnel, and members of historic preservation commissions identify those tangible elements or features that give historic buildings their unique visual character.

Please visit the Technical Preservation Services, Preservation by Topic webpage access this web service.