San Bernardino County, CA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permitting authority
- Road Commissioner / Dept. of Public Works
- Standard encroachment fee
- $264.00
- Minor encroachment (under $1,000 value)
- $95.00
- Residential driveway inspection fee
- $159.00
- Max penalty for unpermitted work
- $500 fine or 6 months jail
Summary
Building a driveway, curb, or sidewalk, or placing any structure in the county right-of-way requires an Encroachment Permit from the Road Commissioner in unincorporated San Bernardino County.
The Commissioner may issue permits, as provided in this Chapter, authorizing the permittee to do any of the following acts: ... (b) Construct or repair, or cause to be constructed or repaired any curb, sidewalk, gutter, driveway, roadway surface, retaining wall, storm drain or culvert, or work of any nature, or place, change or renew an encroachment in, over, along, on, across or through any highway...
Full Breakdown
County Code § 51.0106 lets the Commissioner (Director of Transportation) issue permits to construct or repair curbs, sidewalks, gutters, driveways, or roadway surfaces, or to place, change, or renew any encroachment in, over, along, on, across, or through a county highway. An encroachment covers towers, poles, pipes, fences, billboards, stands, buildings, or any other structure placed in, under, or over the right-of-way. Work without a permit is a misdemeanor under § 51.0107, and applicants must post a deposit or bond and hold the County harmless under §§ 51.0111 and 51.0113.
Violations & Fines
Misdemeanor: fine up to $500 or up to six months in County Jail, or both; each day of violation is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a driveway in unincorporated San Bernardino County?
What happens if I do the work without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Bernardino County
California rules heatmap·Compare San Bernardino County to another location·View the California sidewalk & pedestrian rules overview
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