Fresno Historic Preservation Program

The City of Fresno’s Historic Preservation Ordinance was approved by the City Council in 1979 and revised in 1999. The City was also the first in California designated as a Preserve America Community by (former) First Lady Laura Bush.

The intent of the Ordinance is “to preserve, promote and improve the historic resources and districts of the City of Fresno for educational, cultural, economic and general welfare of the public….” The Ordinance also recognizes that historic preservation helps “to establish, stabilize and improve property values and to foster economic development.” (Section 12-1600, Historic Preservation Ordinance).

The City’s Historic Preservation Commission is comprised of seven individuals appointed by the Mayor, who have training and expertise in preservation, architecture, architectural history, engineering and related fields.

The Commission normally meets the 4th Monday of the month at Fresno City Hall (2600 Fresno St., on Fresno & P Streets in downtown Fresno), Conference Room A at 5:30 pm. The Commission reviews all nominations to the Local Register of Historic Resources and comments on projects and plans that may affect the City’s historic and cultural heritage.

Commission hearings are open to the public and participation is highly encouraged.