Historic Preservation

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Third Avenue 1920s

Chula Vista Firemen 1940s

Dock's on Third Avenue 1940s

History of Early Chula Vista

Early Chula Vista was considered a “fine gentleman's” community developed around the agricultural industry. Chula Vista's historical resources fall into distinct periods of development or Periods of Significance between the late 1800's and 1970's. The historical resources that remain from these Periods of Significance help tell the story of the city’s development. (Found on page 6 [actual page 11] of the Historic Preservation Program).

An important part of what makes Chula Vista a special place is its unique development history. The preservation of the historical resources that represent this history helps foster civic and neighborhood pride and lends to Chula Vista’s charm and character. With this understanding, the City of Chula Vista has developed a comprehensive Historic Preservation Program (HPP) comprised of a historic preservation ordinance, preservation standards, guidelines, and procedures that assist in the identification and preservation of Chula Vista's historical resources.

More about Chula Vista's History

Historic Homes

Historic Preservation Program - Overview Document (2011)

Forms and Applications

The HPP establishes a screening process for determining historical significance of potential historical resources that are 45 years or older, that have not previously been surveyed or designated as historic, and that are proposed for alteration or demolition. In an effort to make the process as streamlined as possible, City staff will use a Historical Resource Eligibility Determination Form to conduct their evaluation and will make all effort to determine eligibility of a resource from City databases and other sources available to the City. (Found on page 42 [actual page 47] of Historic Preservation Program.)

If the HPC or City Council designates a resource as historic, the resource will be assigned a historic number and will be added to the Chula Vista Register of Historical Resources (Local Register). A historic plaque may be purchased by the property owner.

A COA is required for alterations to historical resources that require a building permit. In most circumstances, if the alteration conforms to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties (see Historic Preservation Program section 5.1) then a COA may be issued.

This policy authorizes the City to enter into Mills Act Agreements with property owners of designated historical resources wherein the property owner(s) agrees to preserve, restore or rehabilitate the historical resource in exchange for a reduction of their property taxes (found on page 51, see Historic Preservation Program section 6.1).

Local Register of Historical Resources is found on Appendix G (Historic Preservation Program Section 3.2).