Los Angeles County, CA Historic Preservation: Historic-Cultural Monuments (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Certificate of Appropriateness before altering landmark
- Designation age
- Property must be 50+ years old
- Review body
- Director (minor) or Landmarks Commission (major)
- Violation penalty
- Mandatory restoration plus civil/criminal penalties
- Geographic scope
- Unincorporated LA County only
Summary
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.
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 appropriateness pursuant to the resolution or ordinance designating the landmark or historic district.
Full Breakdown
Properties can be designated County Landmarks under LA County Code Chapter 22.124 if 50+ years old and tied to significant history, architecture, or persons: this applies only to unincorporated LA County, not incorporated cities like the City of Los Angeles. Once designated, owners must obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness before any exterior work or work affecting character-defining features; small projects such as additions under 500 square feet or routine maintenance are approved administratively by the Director, while larger changes go before the Landmarks Commission after a public hearing. Owners must also maintain landmarks to prevent deterioration under § 22.124.230.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted work is declared a public nuisance; violators must restore the landmark to its original condition and face civil suit, criminal prosecution, and administrative fines: unauthorized demolition also blocks new building permits on the site for up to 60 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply inside the City of Los Angeles?
What work needs a Certificate of Appropriateness?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles County to another location·View the California historic preservation overview
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