ADU Permit Submission Checklist in San Bernardino, California
Everything you need to apply for a adu permit in San Bernardino, California — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes
- Submission method
- Online
- Typical fee range
- $3,150 – $9,075
- Review time
- Varies by jurisdiction
- Inspections
- 7 inspections required
ADU Permit Checklist
San Bernardino — 5 required, 0 optional
Forms & Applications(1)
Plans & Diagrams(3)
Supporting Documents(1)
This checklist is for reference only. Requirements may change — always verify with San Bernardino before submission.
Generate your permit packet
Get a personalized ADU permit packet for San Bernardino, California — tailored to your project details.
- Required forms: Building Permit Application, and more
- Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
- Fee breakdown: $1,050–$5,500 estimated total
- Step-by-step San Bernardino Community Development Department portal submission guide
- Inspection prep checklist (7 items)
- Personalized for your specific project details
Free to preview · Pro to download
Required Documents
San Bernardino requires the following documents for this permit application.
Building Permit Application
Completed City of San Bernardino building permit application form with project description, property information, and owner certification
Architectural Drawings
Complete set of architectural drawings signed and sealed by a licensed California architect or professional engineer with floor plans, elevations, sections, and details
Site Plan
Detailed site plan showing property boundaries, lot dimensions, setbacks, existing structures, ADU location, parking areas, and utility access points
Property Ownership Documentation
Current deed or title report proving property ownership, required per California Government Code 65852.2 for ADU eligibility verification
Utility and Mechanical Plans
Plans showing water, sewer, electrical, and gas connections with separate metering details for independent ADU utility service
Permit Process
Follow these steps to submit your permit application through San Bernardino Community Development Department.
- 1
Verify ADU Eligibility
Confirm property qualifies for ADU under California Government Code 65852.2 and San Bernardino Municipal Code Chapter 4.206. Check ownership, zoning, and existing structure status.
You'll need: Property Ownership Documentation
- 2
Submit Building Permit Application
Submit complete building permit application with architectural, site, and utility plans to San Bernardino Community Development Department
You'll need: Building Permit Application, Architectural Drawings, Site Plan, Utility and Mechanical Plans
- 3
Plan Review
San Bernardino Community Development conducts plan review for California Building Code and municipal code compliance
- 4
Address Plan Review Comments
Revise and resubmit plans if necessary to address any plan review comments or required changes
- 5
Fee Payment and Permit Issuance
Pay all required permit and inspection fees and receive authorization to proceed with construction
- 6
Construction Inspections
Schedule and complete all required inspections throughout construction process and upon final completion
Fees and Timeline
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit Fee | $2,100 – $5,500 | Verified |
| Plan Review Fee | $1,050 – $3,575 | Verified |
Inspections Required
Foundation and footing inspection per California Building Co
Foundation and footing inspection per California Building Code
Framing and structural members inspection
Framing and structural members inspection
Electrical rough-in and service panel inspection
Electrical rough-in and service panel inspection
Plumbing rough-in and fixture installation inspection
Plumbing rough-in and fixture installation inspection
Mechanical system and HVAC installation inspection
Mechanical system and HVAC installation inspection
Wall and floor construction inspection
Wall and floor construction inspection
Final walkthrough inspection and approval
Final walkthrough inspection and approval
Authority Sources
Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a adu permit in San Bernardino?
- Yes. San Bernardino requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
- How long does adu permit approval take in San Bernardino?
- Processing times in San Bernardino vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 6 steps. Contact San Bernardino Development Services for current timelines.
- What documents are required for a adu permit in San Bernardino?
- San Bernardino requires 5 documents including Building Permit Application, Architectural Drawings, Site Plan, Property Ownership Documentation, and others. See the full list above for details.
- What happens if I build without a adu permit in San Bernardino?
- Building without a permit in San Bernardino can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
- Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in San Bernardino?
- Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to San Bernardino's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
- How much does a adu permit cost in San Bernardino?
- ADU permit fees in San Bernardino typically range from $3,150 to $9,075, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with San Bernardino.
Related Permits
Other permits in San Bernardino
ADU permits in nearby cities
Ready to apply? Build your submission packet.
Answer a few project questions and get a adu permit packet for San Bernardino, California — with every document, form, and fee organized for submission.
Build My Permit PacketFree to preview · Pro to download