Historic Properties & Preservation

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George L. Sullivan House

Historic properties are the framework of the City of Santa Clara. They are tangible objects that link our past to our present and help guide our future. Each one tells a story and should be protected so that these stories can be told for generations to come. Learn about Santa Clara’s historic preservation efforts.

You can also find more information in the Historic Preservation section of our Planning FAQs. Check out Permitting for Historic Properties for information on the permitting process.

Historic Preservation Ordinance (HPO)

The goal of the HPO is to promote the identification, protection, enhancement, and perpetuation of structures/properties within the City. These properties reflect special elements of the City’s social, economic, historical, architectural, engineering, archaeological, cultural, natural, or aesthetic heritage.

Read Chapter 18.130 of the City’s Zoning Code (PDF) for details about the ordinance.

Historic Resource Inventory (HRI)

The Historic Resource Inventory (PDF) is a list of architecturally or historically significant resources. The list is maintained as Appendix 8.9 of the City's General Plan. The inventory does not include all the City's historical and architectural resources, as many structures have never been surveyed.

To be on the list, a property must meet the HRI designation criteria as outlined in the City’s Zoning Code, section 18.130.040. The Historical & Landmarks Commission reviews all nominations and gives a recommendation to the City Council.

Check out the HRI Map for an interactive version of the inventory.

Historic Consultant List

The City relies on qualified consultants. They are hired by private applicants or property owners to identify historic resources and review projects following local, state, and federal regulations. These consultants prepare historic resource surveys (DPR 523 forms) and conduct analyses per the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for proposed developments.

The Historical Survey Consultant List (PDF) may help applicants find qualified consultants; however, the list is not comprehensive. There may be qualified historic resource consultants who are not listed. Applicants are free to contract with any qualified consultant for services.

Historic Preservation Resources

Last Updated:

10-10-2025