San Bernardino ADU Regulations & Building Guide

San Bernardino is located in Southern California and is renowned for its cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. It provides residents with both urban amenities and suburban comfort.

California State ADU Laws

California has some of the most progressive ADU legislation in the country. Recent laws including AB 68, SB 13, and AB 881 have significantly streamlined the ADU approval process and reduced barriers for homeowners.

Key California ADU Regulations:

• Size Limits: Detached ADUs can be up to 1,200 sq ft. Attached ADUs can be up to 50% of the primary dwelling or 1,200 sq ft, whichever is less.
• Setbacks: Minimum 4-foot side and rear setbacks for detached ADUs.
• Height: Generally up to 16 feet, with some exceptions for two-story ADUs (up to 25 feet in certain zones).
• Parking: No additional parking required in most cases, especially near transit.
• Owner Occupancy: No owner-occupancy requirement until 2025 for most ADUs.

San Bernardino Local Requirements

While California state law provides baseline regulations, San Bernardino may have additional local requirements. GatherADU's team stays current with San Bernardino's specific zoning codes, architectural guidelines, and permit processes to ensure your ADU project meets all requirements.

Common local considerations in San Bernardino include:

• Design review requirements and architectural standards
• Utility connection fees and impact fees
• Fire department access requirements
• Neighborhood-specific overlay zones

California law (AB 68, AB 881, SB 9, and subsequent legislation) guarantees your right to build ADUs. Cities cannot:

• Require owner-occupancy for ADUs permitted after 2020
• Require additional parking for ADUs near transit
• Charge impact fees for ADUs under 750 sq ft
• Deny ADUs that meet state minimum standards
• Impose lot coverage limits that prevent a 800 sq ft ADU

If you believe your ADU application is being unfairly denied, California HCD can intervene on your behalf.

California ADU Legislation Overview

California leads the nation in ADU-friendly legislation. The state has passed numerous laws to encourage ADU construction as a solution to the housing crisis.

Key California ADU Laws:

• AB 68 (2020): Reduced local government review time and expanded ADU construction options.
• SB 13 (2020): Limited impact fees and reduced owner-occupancy requirements.
• AB 881 (2020): Prohibited minimum lot size requirements and allowed JADUs in all zones.
• AB 2221 (2022): Further streamlined the ADU approval process.
• SB 897 (2022): Increased height limits for ADUs in certain zones.

California ADU Benefits:

• Property value increase of 20-30% on average
• Rental income potential of $1,500-$3,500+ monthly
• Housing flexibility for family members
• No owner-occupancy requirements (until 2025)

San Bernardino, located in the Inland Empire region of Southern California, is a historic city known for its diverse community, scenic surroundings, and rich cultural heritage. With a population of approximately 216,239, San Bernardino serves as a significant economic and cultural hub in the region.

Geography and History

San Bernardino is nestled against the San Bernardino Mountains, offering picturesque views and access to numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. Founded in the early 19th century, the city has a rich history influenced by its Native American roots, Spanish colonization, and development during the westward expansion of the United States.

Local Economy

San Bernardino's economy is diverse, driven by several key sectors:

• Logistics and Distribution: The city's strategic location along major highways and railways makes it a vital hub for logistics and distribution centers.
• Healthcare: Numerous hospitals and medical centers, including the Loma Linda University Medical Center.
• Education: Home to California State University, San Bernardino, and several other educational institutions.
• Retail and Services: The city has a variety of shopping centers and service-oriented businesses.
• Manufacturing: Presence of light manufacturing and industrial operations.

Popular Neighborhoods

San Bernardino offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and amenities.

• Arrowhead: Known for its historic homes and proximity to the Arrowhead Springs area.
• Downtown San Bernardino: A mix of residential, retail, dining, and entertainment options, with ongoing revitalization efforts.
• North Park: Features suburban living with access to parks and good schools.
• Muscatel: Offers a family-friendly atmosphere with affordable housing options.
• Verdemont: A suburban area with newer developments and scenic views of the mountains.

Real Estate Market

The real estate market in San Bernardino is known for its relative affordability compared to other parts of Southern California. The city's diverse housing options, including single-family homes, apartments, and condos, cater to a wide range of buyers. The demand for housing is driven by San Bernardino's quality of life, good schools, and strong community ties.

ADU Regulations in San Bernardino

To address housing needs and affordability, San Bernardino has implemented Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) regulations in line with California state law. These regulations aim to encourage the development of ADUs and provide more diverse housing options.

• Zoning: ADUs are permitted in all residential zones and mixed-use zones that allow residential uses.
• Types of ADUs: Both attached and detached ADUs are allowed, as well as Junior ADUs (JADUs).
• Size Limits:
  • Detached ADUs: Up to 1,200 sqft.
  • Attached ADUs: Up to 50% of the primary dwelling's living area or 1,200 sqft, whichever is less.
  • JADUs: Up to 500 sqft.
• Height Restrictions: Detached ADUs are generally limited to 16 feet in height, with some exceptions allowing up to 25 feet.
• Parking: Generally, no additional parking is required for ADUs, especially if they're located within half a mile of public transit.
• Owner Occupancy: As of 2020, there is no owner-occupancy requirement for ADUs built between January 1, 2020, and January 1, 2025. Owner occupancy is required for properties with JADUs.
• Approval Process: ADUs that meet certain criteria are eligible for ministerial approval, streamlining the process.
• Multiple ADUs: In multi-family properties, up to two detached ADUs are allowed, or ADUs for 25% of the existing units within the structure, whichever is greater.
• Impact Fees: Reduced impact fees for ADUs smaller than 750 sqft.
• Design Standards: ADUs must be designed to be compatible with the primary residence and neighborhood character.

These regulations are designed to support the development of ADUs, providing more diverse and affordable housing options in San Bernardino.

Cultural Landmarks and Unique Aspects

San Bernardino is known for its cultural landmarks and unique aspects that enrich the community's quality of life.

• San Manuel Stadium: Home to the Inland Empire 66ers, a Minor League Baseball team.
• San Bernardino National Forest: Offers numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, and fishing.
• California Theatre of the Performing Arts: Hosts a variety of performances, from concerts to Broadway shows.
• Route 66: San Bernardino is a key stop on the historic Route 66, celebrated with annual festivals and events.
• Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art: Located on the campus of California State University, San Bernardino, showcasing a diverse range of art exhibits.

San Bernardino's commitment to thoughtful urban planning, cultural diversity, and economic growth makes it a standout city in the Inland Empire region. The implementation of ADU regulations reflects the city's proactive approach to addressing housing needs while maintaining its high living standards. With its unique blend of cultural landmarks, economic opportunities, and community-focused amenities, San Bernardino continues to attract residents and businesses seeking a dynamic and prosperous environment.

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