Planning to build a new home, add an ADU, finish a basement, install a pool, replace a roof, or do any other construction or renovation project in unincorporated San Bernardino County, California? You will need a building permit from the San Bernardino County Building and Safety Division (part of Land Use Services).
Most people get stuck on the same questions: “How do I actually apply?”, “What will it cost in 2026?”, “How long does approval really take?”, “What documents do they want?”, and “What are the hidden tricks that make this process go faster?” This long, practical guide answers all of those questions with real-world steps, insider tips, and the exact workflow that experienced contractors and smart homeowners use every day in San Bernardino County.
San Bernardino County Building and Safety Department Contact Details 2026
Service | Details |
|---|---|
Main Office Address | 385 N. Arrowhead Avenue, San Bernardino, CA 92415 |
Main Phone / Technical Support | (909) 387-8311 or Toll-Free (800) 722-4542 |
Building & Safety Inquiries | (909) 387-8311 |
Email / Contact Form | Use the online contact form on lus.sbcounty.gov |
Hours | Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
How to Apply for a Building Permit in San Bernardino County, California – Complete Micro Step-by-Step Guide (2026)
- Confirm your project is in unincorporated San Bernardino County (not inside a city).
- Access the EZ Online Permitting (EZOP) portal.
- Prepare detailed construction drawings, site plans, specifications, and supporting documents.
- Determine if your project qualifies for faster processing (many roofing, windows, HVAC, and water heater replacements do).
- Submit the complete application online through EZOP with all attachments.
- Pay the required application and plan review fees online (credit card service fees apply).
- Monitor your application status in the portal and respond quickly to any review comments.
- Once approved, pay the remaining permit fees and print/post the permit visibly at the job site before starting work.
- Schedule inspections through the EZOP portal or by contacting the appropriate Building and Safety office.
San Bernardino County Building Permit Fees 2026 – What You’ll Actually Pay
Fees include plan review and building permit components based on valuation or square footage. Additional charges cover re-inspections, technology fees, state surcharges, and impact fees. Fees updated July 1, 2025. Always use the online fee estimator or download the latest Master Fee Schedule before submitting to budget accurately.
Insider Tips & Tricks That Save Time and Money in San Bernardino County
- Use the EZOP portal for everything possible — it reduces counter visits and speeds up tracking.
- Submit complete and clearly labeled drawings the first time — incomplete submissions are the #1 reason for delays.
- Call (909) 387-8311 or toll-free (800) 722-4542 early in the morning for questions — staff is most responsive then.
- For smaller projects, confirm eligibility for faster processing first.
- Pay with cash or check in person if possible to avoid credit card service fees.
- Schedule inspections well in advance through the portal.
- Coordinate with Zoning or other divisions early if your project involves additional reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I search for existing building permits in San Bernardino County?
Use the EZOP portal to search by property address or permit number.
How long does it take to get a building permit in San Bernardino County?
Simple permits can be issued quickly. Standard projects with full plan review typically take 7–20 business days if submitted completely.
Can I pull my own permit as an owner-builder in San Bernardino County?
Yes. Owner-builders can apply but must take full responsibility for code compliance and job safety.
What are the re-inspection fees in San Bernardino County?
Re-inspection fees apply for failed or missed inspections. Exact amounts are in the current fee schedule.
Do I need approvals from other departments?
Yes. Many projects require review from Zoning, Fire, or other divisions. Coordinate early to avoid delays.
Last reviewed: April 15, 2026
Khushboo Bobade is a public records researcher and editorial writer specializing in government service documentation and construction permit systems.
Her research focuses on explaining building permits, inspection procedures, zoning regulations, and public permit records maintained by local government building departments across the United States.
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