San Bernardino County ADU’s
San Bernardino ADUs: Custom Comfort Meets Scenic Beauty
In the diverse landscapes of San Bernardino, ADU Cities is dedicated to creating living spaces that blend comfort with the natural beauty of the area. Our ADUs here are more than structures; they are serene escapes that harmonize with San Bernardino’s scenic vistas. Whether it’s a hillside retreat or a suburban backyard sanctuary, we tailor each ADU to your vision, infused with the county’s distinctive charm.
Harmonious Integration
Our ADUs in San Bernardino are designed to complement both the urban and natural settings of the county. We respect the area’s architectural variety, adding a modern flair that enhances each ADU’s functionality and aesthetic appeal while seamlessly blending with the local environment.
Natural Design
We craft our ADUs to embrace and celebrate the diverse climate and landscapes of San Bernardino. Our focus is on creating spaces that make the most of the area’s natural light and scenery, ensuring each structure is energy-efficient and in harmony with its surroundings.
County Character
Each ADU we build in San Bernardino captures the unique character of the region, from its tranquil desert areas to its bustling city centers. Our designs incorporate elements that reflect the county’s varied lifestyle, offering everything from tranquil nature-focused retreats to sleek, modern living spaces.
Bespoke Builds
At ADU Cities, we understand that every homeowner in San Bernardino has unique needs and visions for their property. We listen attentively to your ideas and transform them into a reality, ensuring that each ADU is as distinctive and individual as its inhabitants.
San Bernardino ADUs: Embracing the County's Essence
In San Bernardino County, ADU Cities specializes in turning your dream of the perfect ADU into a reality. We expertly blend your ideas with the unique qualities of San Bernardino, creating ADUs that offer more than just additional living space – they are bespoke havens tailored to your lifestyle. Start your ADU project in San Bernardino County with ADU Cities, and take the first step in enhancing your living experience.
LOCAL EXPERTISE IN SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY
Building ADUs in San Bernardino County, ADU Cities stands as a beacon of local expertise and knowledge. We deeply understand the diverse character and unique needs of each community, from the serene desert landscapes to the lively suburban areas. Our team is proficient not only in construction but also in navigating the specific zoning laws and architectural nuances of San Bernardino County. This ensures your ADU not only complies with all regulations but also beautifully complements the local environment.
CUSTOMIZED SOLUTIONS FOR EVERY STYLE
San Bernardino County’s varied lifestyles and architectural preferences are our canvas for customized ADU solutions. Whether you envision a modern retreat in a bustling neighborhood or a tranquil space in a more secluded area, our team is equipped to bring your dream to life. We take the time to understand your specific needs and preferences, then craft an ADU that’s not just a structure but a sanctuary, enhancing both your lifestyle and your property’s value.
EFFICIENT AND STREAMLINED PROCESS
Tackling an ADU project in San Bernardino County is a breeze with ADU Cities. We handle every aspect, from the initial design to the construction’s final phase, ensuring a smooth, transparent process. Our commitment to punctuality and clear communication keeps you informed every step of the way, guaranteeing your ADU project is completed to the highest standard. Our efficient in-house team minimizes disruptions, making the development of your ADU a pleasant and hassle-free experience.
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY ADU BUILDER
ADU Cities is proud to cater to the largest county in the United States, San Bernardino County, where we’re familiar with the vast desert landscapes, the suburban communities, and everything in between. Our services reach every corner, from the bustling city of San Bernardino to the quiet streets of Needles, the scenic views of Chino Hills, the growing city of Fontana, and the gateway city of Ontario. We also serve Rancho Cucamonga, Victorville, Rialto, Hesperia, Chino, Upland, Apple Valley, Redlands, Highland, Yucaipa, Colton, Adelanto, Montclair, Twentynine Palms, Loma Linda, Barstow, Yucca Valley, Grand Terrace, Big Bear Lake, and more. Each city offers its own unique charm and challenges, and our team at ADU Cities is equipped to address them all, ensuring your ADU complements its surroundings and meets your specific needs.
A Brief History of San Bernardino County: Adapting to Housing Needs with ADUs
San Bernardino County’s history, sprawling across vast deserts and bustling cities, is rich and varied. Initially home to Native American tribes, it underwent significant transformation with the influx of settlers during the California Gold Rush. This period marked the beginning of a significant population increase, setting the stage for the county’s diverse and expansive development.
Throughout the 20th century, San Bernardino County experienced substantial growth, driven by its strategic location and burgeoning industries. However, this growth also brought challenges, particularly in housing. The county faced a growing demand for affordable and diverse housing options, leading to a noticeable strain on its existing residential infrastructure.
In response to these challenges, San Bernardino County, like much of California, has increasingly turned to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as a viable solution. ADUs offer an innovative approach to housing, providing affordable, efficient alternatives that cater to a variety of needs, from augmenting rental markets to offering additional living space for extended families.
The rise of ADUs in San Bernardino County is a testament to its adaptability and commitment to sustainable growth. These units not only address immediate housing shortages but also reflect a shift in urban and suburban planning, emphasizing flexibility and resilience. San Bernardino County’s embrace of ADUs signifies a progressive step towards meeting the evolving housing needs of its diverse population.
San Bernardino County ADU Permit Fees, Utility Hookups & Zoning Realities
Within city limits, your city issues the ADU permit. In unincorporated San Bernardino County — the mountain communities, the high and low desert, and the valley’s unincorporated pockets — Land Use Services handles ADUs under Chapter 84.01 of the County Code. Here is what the County’s own ADU handout tells homeowners about fees, utilities, and the rules that matter most.
Permit fees in unincorporated San Bernardino County
The County applies a tiered impact fee schedule based on the size of the ADU: transportation impact fees are zero for an ADU under 750 square feet, and for an ADU of 750 square feet or more they are charged proportionately in relation to the square footage of the primary dwelling. School fees are zero for an ADU of 500 square feet or less; above that size, they vary by school district. Standard building permit and plan check fees apply on top, and the County notes that other review fees related to drainage or fire protection may also be applicable.
Utility hookups: sewer, septic, and a rule that saves conversions money
If your lot is on a septic system, plan ahead: the County may require a percolation test completed within the last 5 years (or recertified within the last 10) as part of an ADU application on a lot with an onsite wastewater system, and on lots under half an acre with an existing home, the additional dwelling requires an Advanced Treatment System. If you are on public sewer, there is good news for conversions: for a by-right ADU built within your existing home, the County may not require a new or separate utility connection, or impose a related connection fee — though it may require a new connection for other types of ADUs.
Zoning reality check
Size limits here depend on your lot: a new detached ADU may be up to 1,200 square feet, but if your lot coverage is already exceeded, the maximum drops to 800 square feet — and an attached ADU cannot make the total floor area exceed 50% of the existing primary home. One parking space is required for an ADU, and tandem parking on a driveway counts; no replacement parking is required when a garage or carport is converted or demolished for the ADU, and no parking is required at all when the ADU is within a half-mile walking distance of public transit. Finally, short-term rentals of ADUs are allowed only in the Mountain and Desert regions, and only with a County Short-Term Rental Permit.
Source: San Bernardino County Land Use Services, Accessory Dwelling Unit Handout (revised July 9, 2024).
Cities We Serve in San Bernardino County
We design and build accessory dwelling units across San Bernardino County — all 24 cities. Select your city to explore local ADU regulations, costs, and design options:
