Historic Preservation

In 1995, Davis became a Certified Local Government (CLG). This means that the city is one of approximately thirty California jurisdictions that have joined with the California State Office of Historic Preservation to preserve their unique historic character. The CLG program provides technical assistance and small grants to its local partners. 

Cultural Resources Inventory

For more information on the City's Cultural Resources Inventory which includes information on surveys of historical properties, the survey forms, and College Park Historic District, see: Cultural Resources Inventory.

Municipal Code Article 40.23 - Historical Resources Management

The City of Davis Municipal Code Article 40.23 - Historical Resource Management, a portion of the City's zoning ordinance, is the section of the Municipal Code that governs the historic preservation process in Davis. 

Davis Downtown and Traditional Residential Neighborhood Design Guidelines

In 2001, the City has completed the process of creating design guidelines for the area bounded by the original 1917 Davis city limits, also known as the Conservation District. This area initially included the core commercial (downtown) area, and three residential neighborhoods adjacent to it: Old North Davis, University Avenue/Rice Lane, and Old East Davis. The guidelines are included in the City of Davis Municipal Code as Article 40.13A.0 - Downtown and Traditional Neighborhood Overlay District.

In 2022, the City adopted the Downtown Davis Specific Plan and Downtown Form Based Code which included modifying the boundaries of the Conservation District to remove the downtown and certain other areas from the Conservation District. 

Historical Resources Management Commission Support

Davis' Historical Resources Management Commission oversees the City's historic preservation activities, including the City's Cultural Resources Inventory of Davis' older properties and sites.

Historic Preservation Awards

Preservation awards recognize organizations and individuals for outstanding contributions and commitment to excellence in local historic preservation. The awards are sponsored by the Historical Resources Management Commission (HRMC) to encourage organizations and individuals to restore and revitalize Davis' historic homes, buildings, structures, and neighborhoods and to support sensitive adaptive reuse. The awards also serve to promote awareness of the city's historical heritage. For information, see: Historic Preservation Awards.

Hattie Weber Museum

The original Davis Library has been dedicated as the Hattie Weber Museum of Davis, in honor of Davis' first paid librarian. The Davis Library Club organizes displays depicting Davis' past and progress. Open Wednesday and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Phone the museum during operating hours at 758-5637 for information on volunteer opportunities and donations. The museum is located at the corner of 5th & C Streets in Central Park. In addition, like many City facilities, the Hattie Weber Museum is available to be rented for community use. For information, see: Hattie Weber Museum.

Davis Historic Bike Tour

Learn about the history of Davis from the seat of your bicycle! A self-guided tour brochure is now available from the Parks & Community Services Department, the Hattie Weber Museum, and the Chamber of Commerce. Call us if you have questions or would like to participate in historic preservation activities. For information, see: Davis Historic Bike Tour.

Local Davis History

For general information about the City's history, please see: "Growing Pains: Thirty Years in the History of Davis". This book on Davis' recent history was written by local writer and journalist Mike Fitch.