Hayward's Historic Preservation Ordinance

Purpose of the Ordinance:

The City of Hayward maintains a List of Historically and Architecturally Significant Buildings.

Definitions:

Example in the Hayward area: Downtown Hayward

Historic Site: a property which has been designated as a site closely identified with an historic person's life, community, or historic event.

Example in the Hayward area: DeAnza's Camp (not currently designated)

Historic Structure: any building within the City which has been identified as having historic or architectural significance.

Such buildings are placed on the City's List of Historically and Architecturally Significant Buildings.

Significant Structure: both an historic structure and a structure located within an historic site or district.

Example in the Hayward area: Historic City Hall All such designations are for private buildings - not public buildings.

What are the criteria for designating a site or structure historic?

• Was associated with historic people or events, or
• Is representative of a certain type of architecture or type of building, or
• Was connected with a type of business that was once common, or
• Contains outstanding examples of fine craftsmanship or construction

How does a building or district get designated as historic?

1. Someone initiates the process. This can be done by the City Council, City Planning Commission, City Director of Community and Economic Development, Hayward Area Historical Society, property owner, or by at least 50 city residents.
2. The request for designation is filed with the City's Development Review Services Division. A form is available at the Planning Department at City Hall. Information needed: location of site, description of structure, historic value, sketches or photographs, etc.
3. The form will be reviewed by Planning Division staff who will then schedule a public hearing and notify those within 300 feet of the property.
4. The Planning Commission will approve, disapprove, or modify the designation. Appeals to the City Council may be filed within 10 days.
5. Once approved, the property owners will be notified by the City Clerk, and a copy of the designation will be filed with Building Division, Planning Division, and the Alameda County Recorder.

Once designated as historic, can a structure be altered or destroyed?

Any significant alteration must be approved by the City. These alterations must "not adversely affect the exterior architectural characteristics or the historical, architectural, or aesthetic value of the building and its site. Also, siting, landscaping, architecture, materials, and color shall be harmonious with historic elements of the surrounding neighborhood." Request to demolition a structure must also be reviewed by the City. Owners of historic properties must maintain these structures and comply with all codes, laws, and regulations.

For more information, visit the City of Hayward's website at http://www.ci.hayward.ca.us/.