Historic Buildings Receive Increased Protection

New penalties for demolishing historic structures in San Diego

The San Diego City Council is trying to protect local buildings of importance by upping the ante for people who damage historic structures without permits.

The ordinance, passed by a 6-2 vote Tuesday, changes how the municipal code assesses and uses civil penalties for code violations affecting historic resources.

First, it allows the director of the neighborhood code compliance to evaluate penalties for unpermitted work to both designated and non-designated historical resources. Additionally, collected penalties now will be deposited into the Historic Preservation Fund.

β€œSan Diego is fortunate to be home to many buildings of great historic significance, and the ordinance approved today will help ensure they remain part of our community character,” said San Diego City Councilmember Todd Gloria.

The ordinance originated from an idea discussed in September 2009 by the City Council’s Land Use and Housing Committee.
 

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