Historic Property Regulations and Design Guidelines

Design Review

People coming together to review building designs

Design Review is the process used by the city to review a building project proposal for its conformity with Design Guidelines and all applicable Zoning regulations. Some reviews include special rules for historic properties.  

Planning Code Section 17.136 explains Design Review requirements and findings. Some parts of this section focus specifically on historic buildings, including: 

  • CIX-1A zoned properties 
  • Designated Historic Properties 
  • Potentially Designated Historic Properties (PDHPs) 
  • More details are available under Demolition Findings. 

Under the Historic Preservation Element’s Policy 3.7, PDHPs proposed for demolition may be offered for free to an organization that is willing to pay for its relocation. Planning and Building provides guidelines on how to make an offer and what permits are required to move a building. 

Most exterior changes to a building require some level of Design Review. To learn about permit requirements or to apply, visit the Online Permit Center. 

Design Review Requirements and Findings

Some properties are subject to additional review rules, especially Designated Landmarks. These rules help protect historic character while allowing appropriate updates.

Environmental Review

Harm to historic resources is considered an environmental impact under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). For larger projects, these impacts are studied in an Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The EIR reviews possible alternatives and helps guide public decisions. 

At the federal level, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act requires a similar review for projects involving federal funding, permits, or approvals. 

Design Guidelines

Person-reviewing-blueprint.jpeg

The City has created several design guidelines that apply to historic buildings and historic areas, including: 

For additional guidelines—such as those for Commercial Corridors, the Central Estuary, and One- and Two-Unit Residences—see Planning & Building Permit Fees & Project Requirements. 

Oakland recognizes both Designated Historic Properties and Potentially Designated Historic Properties as eligible to use the California Historical Building Code. This code allows flexibility to protect historic features that may not meet current building standards. 

Guidelines from other agencies:

The following resources may also be helpful: 

  • Secretary of the Interior’s Standards (National Park Service) 
    These standards are required for certain projects, including federal tax credit projects and Oakland’s Mills Act program. They describe best practices for historic preservation. 

 
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