Legal Battle Over Marilyn Monroe’s Brentwood Home Intensifies

In 2024 the Los Angeles Cultural Heritage Commission designated the Brentwood bungalow Monroe owned for six months in 1962 a historic-cultural monument, preventing demolition of the property Milstein and Bank bought in 2023 for $8.35 million.

New York Post

Monroe bought the 1929 Spanish-style house in February 1962 after divorcing playwright Arthur Miller and died there in August 1962. Preservationists note some original character-defining elements remain despite later alterations. Milstein and Bank spent about $30,000 on demolition permits before the 2024 designation. The owners allege an unconstitutional taking; the city’s planning office and historic resources commission enforce the monument status. LA Conservancy’s Adrian Scott Fine argues the house symbolizes Monroe’s legacy, and Councilwoman Traci Park backed the 2023 preservation effort.

The Guardian

Feb 1962 – Monroe buys the Brentwood bungalow. 2023 – Milstein and Bank acquire it for $8.35 million and obtain demolition permits. 2024 – City designates the house a historic-cultural monument. Jan 2026 – Owners file a federal lawsuit alleging unconstitutional taking. May 2026 – Federal judge dismisses the suit, allowing an amended complaint.

The Guardian

The owners contend the monument status deprives them of just compensation and obliges them to maintain the property at their own expense for public benefit. City spokesperson Pete Brown said the statutes are intended for all parties to be willing participants. The judge rejected the taking claim but allowed a revised filing. City officials can intervene if the property becomes hazardous, including ordering barricades and repairs at the owners’ cost. Preservationists warn that neglect could effectively lead to demolition, citing roof damage, non-functional heating and plumbing, and possible mold. Residents report tourist buses and trespassers, raising safety concerns.

The Guardian

Owners assert that “many elements of the house … are in disrepair and non-functional,” while a 2023 city assessment found “significant character-defining features” still intact. No city inspection has occurred since 2023, leaving the current condition unverified.

The Guardian

• “She talked about this house and was photographed in this house. It was where she was embarking on a new chapter of her independence, and it tells an important, poignant story about her,” — Adrian Scott Fine, LA Conservancy

The Guardian

• “to preserve and maintain a monument on their own dime for the public’s enjoyment” — David Breemer, lead attorney for the homeowners

The Guardian

• “It’s a quandary,” — Pete Brown, city council spokesperson

The Guardian

• “We are preparing our next steps in this case,” Pacific Legal Foundation attorney J.” — J. David Breemer, Pacific Legal Foundation attorney

New York Post

Milstein and Bank may file an amended complaint; the city can enforce safety standards but lacks a dedicated fund to purchase the property. Negotiations over compensation and preservation responsibilities remain unresolved.

The Guardian