Judge Upheld Landmark Status of Monroe Estate
Los Angeles homeowners seeking to demolish the former Marilyn Monroe residence have had their lawsuit dismissed.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Residential
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A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit filed by owners challenging the historical monument status of the Brentwood home where Marilyn Monroe once lived. The owners, who purchased the property in 2023, sought to demolish the structure, citing its dilapidated condition.
Why it matters
The legal battle highlights the significant impact that city-imposed historical designations can have on a property's market value and the owner's ability to develop their land. This ruling maintains the current status quo for the site, preventing demolition plans from moving forward.
The home saw its value drop from $8.5 million to $820,000 following the city's 2024 decision to grant it historical monument status. The owners previously spent $30,000 on demolition and grading permits that are now effectively stalled.
The players
Percy Anderson
The U.S. District Judge who presided over the case in the Central District Court of California.
Karen Bass
The Mayor of Los Angeles who, alongside the city, defended the historical monument status of the property.
Brinah Milstein and Roy Bank
The property owners who purchased the Brentwood residence in 2023 and sought to demolish the structures.
The details
The lawsuit was dismissed because the plaintiffs failed to state a viable taking claim regarding the city's regulatory actions. While the owners intended to clear the site after deeming the structures dilapidated, the Los Angeles City Council moved to grant historical protection in 2023. This designation restricts major structural changes, effectively halting the owners' development plans despite the prior issuance of building permits.
Timeline
1962: Marilyn Monroe lived and died in the residence.
September 8, 2023: Los Angeles City Council moved to consider historical status.
June 26, 2024: The city approved the historical designation.
September 28, 2026: Judge Percy Anderson dismissed the owners' lawsuit.
The Home Front
This case underscores the tension between municipal historic preservation efforts and the private property rights of homeowners in aging, prestige neighborhoods. It serves as a precedent for how quickly city-led designation processes can alter the valuation and development potential of a home.
If you own a property that could be considered for historic designation, research the specific criteria used by your local government to avoid potential surprises regarding future renovation plans. Always consult with a licensed real estate attorney to understand how local ordinances might affect your property rights before finalizing a purchase.
The takeaway
Historical monument status can fundamentally redefine what you are allowed to do with your property and its overall market value. Review your home's local land-use records and any existing covenants or designations to understand your property's development limitations.
What happens next
The property owners plan to appeal the court ruling, which will likely lead to further legal proceedings in the coming months.
Further reading
For more information on property rights and local regulations, visit the Residential section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by People.
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