Historic Preservation in Los Angeles County, CA (2026)

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 8 cities in Los Angeles County, California.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

HPOZ Rules

Properties within LA County's Historic District overlays must comply with special development standards, and in the Historic Highlands Historic District (Altadena, established July 2026), most building alterations require a Certificate of Appropriateness.

Historic Preservation: Hpoz Rules

Some Restrictions

Los Angeles County Code § 22.82.050

22.82.050 - Historic Highlands Historic District. A.Effective Date. The effective date of the establishment of the Highlands Historic District (District) is July 9, 2026. B.District Location and Map. The District is located in the unincorporated community of Altadena... F.Certificate of Appropriateness Exemptions. A certificate of appropriateness is not required for the following work:1.Paintin...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Historic-Cultural Monuments

In unincorporated LA County, altering the exterior or character-defining features of a designated Landmark or historic district property requires a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Director or Landmarks Commission before work begins.

Los Angeles County Landmark Alteration Permits

Significant Restrictions

Los Angeles County Code § 22.124.140

Except as set forth in Subsection B, below, a certificate of appropriateness is required prior to conducting any of the following work: 1. Work involving or impacting the exterior of a landmark structure or property located within a historic district; 2. Work involving or impacting a character-defining feature of a landmark or historic district; and 3. Work which requires a certificate of appro...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗