Historic homes in Goleta: the local rules

Each rule below links to the section of the Goleta Municipal Code it was read from, with the code text one click away (checked October 2026). General information, not legal advice.

What Goleta's code says

Goleta code What Goleta's code adds
When a building counts as historic	For structures more than 50 years old, the Director may require a historic resources assessment report before demolition. Applies: Structure not listed in the Historic Resources Inventory (HRI) and proposed for demolition. § 17.33.090 · code text If structure is more than 50 years old but not listed in the HRI is proposed for demolition
Changing a historic home	Design Review. Applies: Proposed additions to historic resources. § 17.33.080 · code text All proposed additions to historic resources are subject to Design Review. Altering a historic resource is unlawful unless approved through Director review or Design Review. § 17.33.080 · code text It shall be unlawful for any person, property owner, or entity to alter any historic resource directly or indirectly except as provided herein.
Demolishing an older or historic home	A Major Conditional Use Permit. Applies: Demolition of a historic resource. § 17.33.090 · code text Demolition of a historic resource may be permitted only with the issuance of a Major Conditional Use Permit unless determined necessary by the Building Official as outlined in Section 17.29.010(B)(3). No permits or use of the property are allowed for 3 years. Applies: Residential property demolished without approval of both a Zoning Permit and a Demolition Permit. § 17.33.090 · code text no permits or use of the property shall be allowed from the date of demolition for a period of three years for residential properties
Work that needs no review	Ordinary maintenance and repair. Applies: Work does not change the design, materials, architectural features or character-defining features of a historic resource. § 17.33.080 · code text ordinary maintenance and repair which does not change the design, materials, architectural features, or character-defining features of a historic resource.
Mills Act tax incentive	Owners may apply for a Mills Act contract. Applies: Owners of designated Historic Landmarks or contributors to a designated Historic District. § 17.33.110 · code text property owners of designated Historic Landmarks or contributors to a designated Historic District may apply for a Mills Act contract under Government Code Sections 50280-50290.

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Frequently asked questions

What rules apply to a historic home in Goleta?

Goleta's code: For structures more than 50 years old, the Director may require a historic resources assessment report before demolition. (Structure not listed in the Historic Resources Inventory (HRI) and proposed for demolition.) (§ 17.33.090); Design Review. (Proposed additions to historic resources.) (§ 17.33.080).

Historic homes in Goleta

What Goleta's code says

Who this affects

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