Some properties within the City of Belmont have been designated as having historical or aesthetic value. A Historic Resource Inventory was completed in 1991 and a comprehensive list of locally significant properties was prepared as an appendix to that report. Copies of both the Historic Resources Inventory report and the historic properties index are available for viewing at the Belmont Permit Center during counter hours, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

Article VII of the Municipal Code addresses structures of historic or aesthetic value. The purpose of this Article is to preserve, enhance, and perpetuate for the benefit of the general public those buildings, structures, and areas having special historical or aesthetic interest or value which contribute to community aesthetics and identity, and to prescribe the procedure for altering, relocating, and demolishing those structures so classified.

In order to make exterior changes to a property within a historic designation, the property owner must first check with the Planning Division of the Community Development Department to confirm whether or not the property is a designated historical resource.

Some physical alterations to historically designated structures may be permitted as part of the normal building permit process and do not require additional Planning Department review and approval.  Replacement of windows, doors, roofing and exterior materials with similar or comparable building materials, some repair and maintenance, and painting and landscaping is often exempt from formal review, but must still be checked by a City Planner to ensure compliance with Article VII of the Municipal Code.

The Municipal Code can be found online. For more information on Historical Resources in the City of Belmont, please see the Planner on Duty at the Belmont Permit Center, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday.