RESEARCHING A BUILDING’S HISTORY FOR DESIGNATION
Obtaining historic designation for your home or building not only authenticates the home’s history but it is a way to preserve it for future generations to admire and enjoy.
Historic designation of properties helps the community understand the value of its own history and often encourages others to do the same.
HISTORIC DESIGNATION
Historic designation of properties helps the community understand the value of its own history and often encourages others to do the same.
HISTORIC DESIGNATION IN THE CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE
Historic designation by the City of Rancho Mirage is eminently achievable if you own a property that appears on the city’s survey of historic resources and your home or business is still in a good state of original integrity. If you have original drawings or early vintage photographs, they will be helpful in proving your case. To determine if your home is on the survey, contact Ben Torres at the City of Rancho Mirage planning department: ben@ranchomirageca.gov. The city’s Historic Preservation Commission has the application form as well as FAQs on its website, including information concerning Mills Act, existing historic resources and more.
If your home is not on the historic survey, but you believe your home is of architectural significance - perhaps by a well-known architect and / or if the exterior is in reasonably original condition, then you will have to go through a process to prove its provenance and its integrity as well as address the normal list of criteria for designation. The city’s application form explains these criteria. This can involve extensive research, photographs of exterior elevations and details, as well as proof of provenance via drawings, photographs, vintage news articles and other evidence.
An update to the City’s Historic Resources Survey is currently underway. Many sites will be added to the existing survey so many properties may be eligible for designation.
BENEFITS OF HISTROIC DESIGNATION
When a site has been designated, the property receives a plaque which is mounted on the exterior of the structure. The designation is noted in the city’s planning department. When any permits are filed for the site, the department will not grant a permit until the plans are thoroughly examined. The Historic Resource Commission then holds a hearing to consider the proposed changes. This allows the city to intervene to preserve a designated site.
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City designation paves the way for application for the Mills Act, which may result in a 60% reduction in property tax bills.
HOW PRESERVATION MIRAGE CAN HELP
Preservation Mirage can help with initial advice and an introduction to resources and researchers who can help. The process can be lengthy and requires thorough documentation. Ben Torres at the city can offer advice.
One of the most significant designation Preservation Mirage has achieved is the iconic neon sign at the Rancho Super Car Wash on Highway 111 in Rancho Mirage.
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If you would prefer to have us handle your application for historic designation, Preservation Mirage can be retained.