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Modesto · Building on your lot

Historic homes in Modesto

Modesto's own rules on historic homes, with the code text for every value.

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

What Modesto's code says

Modesto code What Modesto's code adds
Changing a historic home
  • The Community & Economic Development Director decides whether Landmark Preservation Commission written approval is needed before the permit is issued
    Applies: Applies to building permits to alter, renovate or demolish landmarks and landmark-eligible resources
    § 9-10.07 · code text
    The Chief Building Official shall immediately refer building permit applications which propose to alter, renovate, or demolish landmarks or landmark-eligible resources to the Community & Economic Development Director.
Demolishing an older or historic home
  • The Community & Economic Development Director decides whether Landmark Preservation Commission written approval is needed before the permit is issued
    Applies: Applies to building permits to alter, renovate or demolish landmarks and landmark-eligible resources
    § 9-10.07 · code text
    The Chief Building Official shall immediately refer building permit applications which propose to alter, renovate, or demolish landmarks or landmark-eligible resources to the Community & Economic Development Director.
Mills Act tax incentive
  • Owners can apply for a property tax incentive program through a Historical Property Contract
    Applies: Applies to resources designated as a Modesto Landmark Preservation Site
    § 9-10.10 · code text
    Any owner of a resource which has been designated as a Modesto Landmark Preservation Site shall be eligible to apply for the property tax incentive program through the use of an Historical Property Contract pursuant to Sections 50280 through 50290 of the California Government Code.

Who this affects

HomeownersContractorsDesigners

Frequently asked questions

What rules apply to a historic home in Modesto?

Modesto's code: The Community & Economic Development Director decides whether Landmark Preservation Commission written approval is needed before the permit is issued (Applies to building permits to alter, renovate or demolish landmarks and landmark-eligible resources) (§ 9-10.07); The Community & Economic Development Director decides whether Landmark Preservation Commission written approval is needed before the permit is issued (Applies to building permits to alter, renovate or demolish landmarks and landmark-eligible resources) (§ 9-10.07).

General information, not legal advice.

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Modesto Municipal Code — full text