Historic Preservation
The City of Redlands has a long and rich history, and its citizenry has always been concerned with preservation of its history by maintaining its architectural and scenic resources.
In 1986, the City adopted an ordinance that created the Historic & Scenic Preservation Commission which has responsibility over historic resources. The Commission has seven citizen members, all with special expertise and experience in history, architectural history, planning, historic preservation, and related professional fields. The Historic & Scenic Preservation Commission meets on the first Thursday of each month in the City Council Chamber located at 35 Cajon Street. Planning Division staff are responsible for providing support to the Commission, and can respond to questions regarding historic and scenic preservation.
Congratulations to The Overland (347 Orange St.) for winning the 2024 Preservation Design Award from the California Preservation Foundation for rehabilitation!
LIST OF DESIGNATED HISTORIC RESOURCES (click here)
A.K. Smiley Public Library, circa 1900 (top) and today (bottom).
Overview
The Historic & Scenic Preservation Commission is authorized by City Council to preserve, protect, and promote the City’s historic and scenic resources. The Commission may make recommendations, decisions, and determinations concerning the designation, preservation, protection, enhancement and perpetuation of these historical, scenic and cultural resources which contribute to the culture and aesthetic values of the city (Redlands Municipal Code Chapter 2.62).
The City of Redlands is proud to be a “Certified Local Government” (CLG) in cooperation with the National Park Service as well as the State Office of Historic Preservation in the interest of historic preservation goals.
About Historic Preservation
Some projects do not require review from the Historic & Scenic Preservation Commission, but instead may be approved by staff. However, it is best to communicate with staff and coordinate your project before proceeding forward. The following is a list of projects which do not typically require review from the Historic & Scenic Preservation Commission:
- Alterations to the inside of any structure, including designated structures.
- Landscaping unless specifically designated.
- Outside alterations to structures which are less than fifty (50) years old.
- Outside alterations to structures over fifty (50) years old which are not officially designated as historic properties and not located in a historic district. However, it is best to consult with staff as to the sensitivity of older structures that may be eligible.
- Re-Painting of a building in the same colors
It is best to discuss your project with Planning staff and confirm if your project qualifies for an exemption from review, prior to proceeding with your project or any structure/property modifications. We encourage all property owners and other interested persons to speak with Planning Division staff early in the process, when the project is still an idea (and not a final plan) so that staff can help ensure your project goes smoothly and avoids any delays.
If you have any questions, please call Planning Division staff at (909) 798-7551 option 3, or visit the Planning Division public counter at the One Stop Permit Center.
Informational Brochures
The following brochures are available to provide a general overview of the various aspects of our historic preservation program.
Documents and Resources
List of Designated Historic Resources
Historic Context Statement (click here)
Historic Architectural Design Guidelines - Adopted 9/03/2024
Sections:
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Guidelines for Preservation, Rehabilitation, and Restoration of Historic Resources
Chapter 3: Guidelines for Preservation, Rehabilitation, and Restoration of Historic Exterior Building Materials
Chapter 4: Guidelines for Accessibility, Systems, and Sustainability
Chapter 5: Guidelines for New Additions
Chapter 6: Guidelines for Character Categories
Chapter 7: Guidelines for Historic Districts
Chapter 8: Guidelines for New Buildings and Non-Contributing Buildings in Historic Districts
Chapter 9: Guidelines for Site and Landscape Design
Appendix A: Glossary
Appendix B: Architectural Style Guide
Appendix C: Material Inspection Checklists
Appendix D: List of Historic Resources
Permits and Application Forms
The Historic & Scenic Preservation Commission has responsibility for the following functions.
I. Certificate of Appropriateness
Certificate of Appropriateness Application
A Certificate of Appropriateness is an application upon which the Historic & Scenic Preservation Commission makes a decision to alter, demolish, move, or subdivide a building/property which has been designated Landmark or Historic Resource or within the boundaries of a Historic District designated by the City Council. This means that any modification to the outside of the structure (subsequent to formal designation) must be approved through this COA application. Non-designated structures within a designated Historic District or Scenic District are also subject to review.
Click here for a summary of major and minor projects subject to COA review.
(Note: this list is advisory only, and Planning staff will make a determination after further review of the applicant’s complete description of the project and/or project plans.)
- Major Certificate of Appropriateness (Commission approval): $816.00
- Minor Certificate of Appropriateness (Director approval): $448.00
Changes to the exterior of a building need to be consistent with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties, and in some cases also requires a building permit. If you are interested in making modifications to a historic resource or a property eligible for historic designation, please contact Planning Division staff at (909) 798-7551, option 3, and discuss your idea. We would be happy to discuss your idea early during the design phase (before you finalize or submit your plans) so that your project can proceed smoothly.
II. Demolition of Structures Over 50 Years Old
Application for Demolition Permit
Any structure designated as a Historic or Landmark Resource by the City must have a Certificate of Appropriateness for demolition approved by the Historic and Scenic Preservation Commission. This involves a public hearing and the Statement of Findings as defined by the Redlands Municipal Code. Demolition of any structure over fifty (50) years old needs to have approval from the Historic and Scenic Commission regardless of whether it is designated or not. If you are unsure of the age of the structure, please check with Planning Division staff at (909) 798-7551 option 3, or visit the Planning Division public counter at the One Stop Permit Center.
III. Mills Act Applications
The Mills Act is an incentive program in California for the restoration and preservation of designated historic buildings by private property owners. A Mills Act Contract grants a reduction in local property taxes in exchange for an agreement to actively participate in the restoration, rehabilitation, repairing and preserving of their historic property. The Historic and Scenic Preservation Commission reviews and provides guidance on 10-Year Rehabilitation Plans that are part of a requested Mills Act Contract, and make a recommendation on the application to the City Council.
Please contact Planning staff to discuss how a Mills Act Contract might be beneficial to your property, or for further information about obtaining a Mills Act Contract. You may also visit the Mills Act Contract webpage (click here) for further information, and download the application form. If you have any questions about the Mills Act program or might be interested in applying, please call the Planning Division at (909) 798-7551, option 3.
IV. Designation of Historic Resources
Application for Historic Designation
The Historic and Scenic Preservation Commission has the primary responsibility of making a recommendation to the City Council on the designation of an individual structure as a Historic Resource. A structure with aesthetic, architectural, or historical value which is 50 years old or more may be designated as a Historic Resource. A structure with exceptional aesthetic, architectural, or historical value can be designated as a Landmark Resource. If you are interested in possibly designating a new historic resource or property, please contact Planning Division staff at (909) 798-7551 option 3.
Above: Redlands Bowl (est. 1924)
Above: Santa Fe Depot (est. 1888), the National Register of Historic Places
V. Formation of Historic Districts
The Historic and Scenic Preservation Commission has the primary responsibility of making a recommendation to the City Council on the formation of a Historic District or Scenic District. A Historic/Scenic District is a geographical area that has a significant architectural enclave of historic buildings or scenic vistas. Applications for the formation of a District can be made by the City or from an individual.
Further information regarding the process and steps required to form a Historic or Scenic District, please refer to Sections 2.62.160, 2.62.170, and 2.62.180 of the Redlands Municipal Code (click here for link). If you are interested in possibly creating a new historic district, please contact Planning Division staff at (909) 798-7551 option 3 to discuss your idea.
Historic Districts
I. Local Historic Districts
Click on links below to view the maps of the City’s historic districts.
- Historic District No. 1 – Eureka Street Historic District
- Historic District No. 2 – West Highland Avenue Historic & Scenic District
- Historic District No. 3 – Early Redlands Historic & Scenic District
- Historic District No. 4 – Normandie Court Historic District
- Historic District No. 5 – East Fern Avenue Historic & Scenic District
- Historic District No. 6 – Garden Hill Historic & Scenic District
- Historic District No. 7 – La Verne Street Historic & Scenic District
-
Historic
District No. 8 – Smiley Park Neighborhood Historic & Scenic
District
II. National Register
Santa Fe Depot National Historic District (NR)
Smiley Park Historic District (NR)
Other properties listed on the National Register (not within a historic district)
III. How is a local Historic District formed?
Most frequently, a new historic or scenic district is proposed by a majority of the residents who live within the proposed district area. A Historic/Scenic District is a geographical area that has a significant architectural enclave of historic buildings or scenic vistas. The exact process and procedure required to form a Historic or Scenic District is explained in Sections 2.62.160, 2.62.170, and 2.62.180 of the Redlands Municipal Code (click here for link).
Applications for the formation of a District can be made by the City or from an individual. The application will be reviewed by staff and then subsequently scheduled for a public hearing before the Historic & Scenic Preservation Commission. The Historic & Scenic Preservation Commission may then make a recommendation to the City Council on the formation of a new Historic District or Scenic District.
The City Council does not designate or place any properties or districts on any State or Federal lists of historic resources.
- Link
to California Historical Resources
- Link to
the National Register (National Park Service)
Preservation Briefs
The National Park Service provides “Preservation Briefs” for technical assistance. Preservation Briefs provide information on preserving, rehabilitating, and restoring historic buildings. These publications help historic building owners recognize and resolve common problems prior to work. The briefs are especially useful to Historic Preservation Tax Incentives Program applicants because they recommend methods and approaches for rehabilitating historic buildings that are consistent with their historic character.
Preservation Briefs are available online at: https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1739/preservation-briefs.htm
There are many Preservation Briefs available for reference. Some common topics include:
- Improving Energy Efficiency (#3)
- Roofing for Historic Buildings (#4)
- Repair of Historic Wooden Windows (#9)
- Exterior Paint Problems on Historic Woodwork (#10)
- Rehabilitating Historic Storefronts (#11)
- Exterior Additions to Historic Buildings (#14)
- Preservation of Historic Concrete (#15)
- The Use of Substitute Materials on Building Exteriors (#16)
- Repair and Replacement of Historic Wooden Shingle Roofs (#19)
- Preservation and Repair of Historic Stucco (#22)
- Preservation of Historic Signs (#25)
- Preservation and Repair of Historic Clay Tile Roofs (#30)
- Making Historic Properties Accessible (#32)
- Seismic Rehabilitation of Historic Buildings (#41)
- Maintenance, Repair, and Replacement of Historic Cast Stone (#42)
- The Use of Awnings on Historic Buildings: Repair, Replacement, and New Design (#44)
- Preserving Historic Wooden Porches (#45)
- Maintaining the Exterior of Small and Medium Size Historic Buildings (#47)
Assistance is also provided by topic: Preservation By Topic
Additional Resources
Additional resources may be found online or through the National Park Service website. For example:
Planning Successful Rehabilitation Projects
“A Glossary of Historic Masonry Deterioration Problems and Preservation Treatments”
“Historic Preservation: Project Planning and Estimating” (ISBN 13: 9780876295731)
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: I own a home or property that
is designated as a Local Historic Resource by the City. Can I
make modifications to the exterior (such as a re-roof, changing
the windows, a room addition, or other exterior changes)?
Answer: You may need approval of a
“Certificate
of Appropriateness” permit by the Historic & Scenic
Preservation Commission before you do any work to the structure
or make any changes. Please contact the Planning Division
counter at (909) 798-7551, option 3.
Question: I own a home or property that
is more than 50 years old, and it might be eligible for
historic designation by the City. Can I make modifications
to the exterior of the structure (such as a re-roof, changing the
windows, a room addition or new porch, or other exterior
changes)?
Answer: You may need approval of a
“Certificate
of Appropriateness” permit by the Historic & Scenic
Preservation Commission before you do any work to the structure
or make any changes. Please contact the Planning Division counter
at (909) 798-7551, option 3.
Question: Where can I get help with
designing the changes to my historic building?
Answer: Click on the “Resources &
Documents” button at the top of this page, and go to the link
named “Secretary
of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic
Properties.” This is a very detailed and technical document,
and staff can assist you with identifying appropriate materials
and other treatments that may be used on historic
structures. For large projects, it may be necessary for
the applicant to hire a qualified historical architect
(which is a licensed architect who has specialized training and
experience working with historic buildings). To discuss your
idea for a project further, please contact the Planning
Division counter at (909) 798-7551, option 3.
Question: I want to demolish one or
more structures that are 50 years old or more. Do I need approval
by the City to do demolition work?
Answer: Yes, you will need a
Demolition Permit approved by the City before you perform any
work to demolish or otherwise remove the structure(s). You may
also need approval by the Historic & Scenic Preservation
Commission (if required by the
Redlands Municipal Code Chapter 15.44) before you do
anything to cause the structure to be removed. Please
contact the Planning Division counter at (909) 798-7551, option
3.
Question: I am thinking about having my
historic residence or other property designated as a Local
Historic Resource. How do I go about doing that?
Answer: Please contact Planning staff
to discuss your idea. The Redlands Municipal Code
Chapter 2.24 (click here) has specific requirements and
procedures for designating a property as an official
historic resource. For an explanation of the requirements and
procedures, please contact the Planning Division counter at
(909) 798-7551, option 3.
Question: How do I find a list of
properties in Redlands that are currently designated as Historic
Resources?
Answer: Click on the “Resources &
Documents” button at the top of this page, and go to the link
named “List of Designated Historic Resources.”
Education & Training
The California Dept. of Parks & Recreation, Office of Historic Preservation (OHP), often provides free online training and webinars on various historic preservation topics:
Home, Safe Home: Seismic Safety and Rehabilitating Historic
Homes
June 23 to December 15
Schedule of webinar sessions and topics:
June 23: What Makes My Home Historic?
July 26: Is ‘Compatible’ ‘Matchy-Matchy’?
August 30: Seismic Retrofits for Historic Homes
October 6: Retrofit Projects
November 8: Keep it Lookin’ Great
December 15: The Nuts & Bolts of Retrofits
In addition to OHP, the California Preservation Foundation frequently offers seminars, webinars, educational events, tours, and an annual conference for CPF members and non-members alike.
Other Links
Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties
Secretary of the Interior’s Guidelines on Sustainability for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings
Secretary of the Interior’s Guidelines on Flood Adaptation for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings
National Park Service (NPS) Technical Preservation Services – Online Publications
State Historic Preservation Tax Credit (Calif. Office of Historic Preservation)
Federal Historic Preservation Tax Incentives Program
Williamson Act Program – California Department of Conservation
