City of San Bernardino
City of San Bernardino Community Development Department
CityMS4 Phase IVerified 2026-03
Local Permit / Authorization
- Permit Required
- Yes
- Permit Name
- Grading Permit with Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP)
- Submit To
- City of San Bernardino Community Development Department
- Lead Time
- Plan review 3–6 weeks; WQMP reviewed concurrently with grading/building permit
- Application Method
- In-person or online via City of San Bernardino permit portal; WQMP submitted with permit application
- Fee
- Grading permit fees per project scope; WQMP review fee included
Water Quality Standards
- Impervious Cover Limit
- No citywide cap; WQMP required for projects creating ≥ 5,000 sq ft of new impervious surface
- On-Site Treatment Required
- Yes
- Detention Required
- Yes
- Detention Standard
- Retain the 85th-percentile 24-hour storm using LID BMPs; infiltration where soils are suitable; regional BMPs accepted in some watersheds
- Turbidity Standard
- Must comply with state CGP and Santa Ana Regional Water Board Basin Plan
Local SWPPP / Drainage Plan
- Local Plan Required
- Yes
- Plan Name
- Project-specific WQMP for post-construction; SWPPP per state CGP for construction
- PE Stamp Required
- Yes
WQMP must be prepared by a registered Civil Engineer. San Bernardino implements the San Bernardino County MS4 Permit (Order R8-2010-0036) in the Santa Ana Region.
Local Inspection Requirements
- Requirements
- City conducts grading inspections and BMP verification. Post-construction BMPs require recorded maintenance agreements with annual self-inspection.
- Inspector Qualification
- QSP/QSD per state CGP; no additional city certification
Special Overlay Zones
Santa Ana River Watershed / Upper Basin
Trigger: Properties draining to the upper Santa Ana River basin
Restriction: Subject to TMDL requirements; enhanced groundwater protection due to regional recharge areas; nutrient management BMPs may be required
Design Manual
- Manual Name
- San Bernardino County MS4 WQMP Guidance Document
Official Resources
Jurisdiction Notes
San Bernardino operates under the San Bernardino County MS4 Permit in the Santa Ana Region. The WQMP framework drives post-construction compliance. The city's Inland Empire location means hot, dry summers and intense winter storms create distinct BMP design challenges.
Remember: These local requirements are in addition to the SWRCB state construction permit. Both must be satisfied before breaking ground.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only. Always verify requirements directly with City of San Bernardino Community Development Department and the agency website before beginning construction.