Yolo County, CA Historic Preservation: Historic-Cultural Monuments (2026)

A building, structure, object, place, vegetation or geologic feature can be designated a historic landmark if it meets any one of six criteria in Sec. 102(a): it reflects valued cultural, agricultural, social, economic, political, aesthetic, military, religious, ethnic, natural, architectural, maritime, engineering, archaeological or geological history; it is identified with historically important persons or events; it reflects significant settlement or transportation patterns; it embodies a distinguishing architectural style or use of indigenous materials; it is notable work of a builder, designer or architect; or it is an important natural feature serving as a community visual reference point.

A historic district requires at least two designated landmarks in sufficient proximity to form a setting distinguishable from the rest of the County (Sec. 102(b)). Under Sec. 103, the Historic Preservation Commission (the Planning Commission) initiates designation on its own motion or a property owner's request, requires a filing with the Planning and Public Works Department (assessor's parcel number, description of historic value, site plan, photographs, and a condition statement), a public hearing noticed by newspaper and mail at least 15 calendar days ahead, and final approval by Board of Supervisors resolution.

Sec. 104 bars demolishing, removing, moving or altering the exterior of, or excavating around, a designated landmark without first securing a permit. Sec. 116 puts the County Building Official in charge of enforcement, applying the State Historic Building Code (Title 24, Part 8) to permitted work on designated structures. Limited exemptions from these regulations exist under Sec. 112, and pre-existing building permits are addressed in Sec. 113.