Historic Preservation in San Diego, CA (2026)
3 verified historic preservation rules for San Diego, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
HPOZ Rules
San Diego's historical districts under SDMC §123.0501 require Historical Resources Board approval before any exterior alteration, demolition, or new construction visible from the public right-of-way, applied through the Historical Resources Permit process.
Historical districts under SDMC §123 limit exterior changes to character-defining features
Heavy RestrictionsHistoric-Cultural Monuments
San Diego's Historical Resources Board designates individual properties as historical resources under SDMC §123.0202 using six criteria including architecture, association with significant persons, and master-builder works, triggering exterior-alteration review.
Historical Resources Board designates individual landmarks under SDMC §123.0202
Heavy RestrictionsMills Act Contracts
Under California Government Code §§50280-50290 and SDMC §123.0810, San Diego runs the state's largest Mills Act program, contracting with owners of designated historical resources to cut property tax 40-70 percent in exchange for restoration and maintenance commitments.
San Diego Mills Act program: largest in California for property tax savings
Few RestrictionsLooking for San Diego County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement San Diego city rules.
Historic Preservation in San Diego County →