Before You Build in San Bernardino, CA: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)
Everything you need to know before starting a home improvement project
Building a fence, installing a pool, or adding a shed? Each project has its own set of local permits and rules in San Bernardino. This guide consolidates fence, pool, ADU, shed, fire pit, and landscaping regulations into one checklist so you know what to expect before you start.
Quick Permit Checklist
At-a-glance overview of permit categories in San Bernardino. Click any card for details.
Fences & Walls
2 rules on file
Swimming Pools
2 rules on file
ADUs & Granny Flats
No specific rules found
Sheds & Outbuildings
No specific rules found
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
2 rules on file
Landscaping & Tree Removal
2 rules on file
Fences & Walls
Some RestrictionsHeight limits, materials, permits, and shared fence rules.
Fence Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsSan Bernardino exempts only fences up to 6 feet, and masonry or concrete fences up to 3 feet, from needing a building permit under Municipal Code § 15.04.070. Anything taller, or a taller masonry wall, needs a permit and Building Official review before construction starts.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Few RestrictionsCalifornia Civil Code 841, the Good Neighbor Fence Act, presumes adjoining owners share equally in the cost of a boundary fence and requires 30 days' written notice before work.
Swimming Pools
Some RestrictionsPool permits, safety fencing, and drainage requirements.
Pool Permits
Some RestrictionsAbove-ground pools in San Bernardino over 18 inches deep follow the same permit and barrier rules as in-ground pools. Pool walls of 60 inches can serve as the barrier when steps or ladders are locked or gated.
Fencing & Safety Requirements
Some RestrictionsSan Bernardino treats spas over 18 inches deep as pools under CA H and S Code 115921. A locking ASTM F1346 safety cover can substitute for the perimeter fence on residential hot tubs when kept locked when not in use.
ADUs & Granny Flats
Accessory dwelling unit rules and garage conversion permits.
No specific adus & granny flats rules found for San Bernardino. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Shed permits, setback limits, and outbuilding size rules.
No specific sheds & outbuildings rules found for San Bernardino. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
Significant RestrictionsFire pit placement, outdoor burning restrictions, and permits.
Fire Pits & Backyard Fires
Some RestrictionsSan Bernardino lets residents burn in properly built incinerators, outdoor water heaters, cooking grills and similar devices without a Fire Department permit, but only if the chimney carries a spark arrester screen no coarser than one-quarter inch and every opening is spark-tight. The ground within ten feet of the device must stay clear of anything flammable.
Outdoor Burning
Significant RestrictionsSan Bernardino bans lighting any outdoor fire to clear land or burn brush, slash, timber or grass anywhere in the city without a written permit from the City Fire Department first. Only safe domestic fires and compliant enclosed devices are exempt. The Fire Department issues and enforces every land-clearing and brush-burn permit citywide.
Landscaping & Tree Removal
Some RestrictionsTree removal permits, heritage tree protections, and water rules.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Some RestrictionsSan Bernardino requires a city permit before cutting down, uprooting, destroying or removing more than five trees from a development site or parcel within any 36-month period. The Development Services Department issues permits after an inspection confirms removal will not harm the environment or public welfare.
Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsSan Bernardino owners must keep trees trimmed for sidewalk and street clearance, and in foothill fire zones limbs must be at least six feet above ground and canopies 10 feet apart under PRC 4291.
General Permit Tips
When do you typically need a permit?
Most cities require permits for structural work, including fences over a certain height, pools, ADUs, and sheds above a size threshold. Even projects that seem minor can trigger permit requirements, so it is always best to check first.
How to apply for a building permit
Visit your local building department or their website. Most jurisdictions accept online applications. You will typically need a site plan, project description, and may need contractor information. Processing times vary from same-day for simple projects to several weeks for larger builds.
Common permit violations to avoid
Building without a permit, exceeding approved dimensions, and ignoring setback requirements are the most common violations. Penalties can include fines, required removal of the structure, and complications when selling your home.
Permit Guides for Nearby Cities
Looking for rules beyond permits? View all ordinances we track for San Bernardino.