Chino Hills, California Remodeler Local Permit Ordinances and Codes

Chino Hills Municipal Permit Ordinances for Remodelers and Home Renovations

The City of Chino Hills Building and Safety Division is the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for all residential, commercial, and other construction projects within the city. They ensure compliance with state and local building codes, manufacturer requirements, and specific design standards.

For specific inquiries or to determine permit requirements for your project, it is recommended to contact the Building & Safety Division directly at (909) 364-2780 or email Community Development.

Demolition Permits vs. Standard Building Permits

A distinct demolition permit is generally required for the demolition of a building or structure, or a portion thereof, that is equal to or greater than 500 square feet. Full building demolition also requires a demolition permit. Partial demolition involving the removal of structural elements, such as walls, roof sections, or floors, will require a building permit.

Demolition permits are issued to licensed wrecking contractors (C-21) or General Engineering Contractors (Class A). Submittal requirements for demolition permits include a notarized letter from the property owner or a copy of the signed contract, two copies of a scaled site plan, and a Waste Management Plan (WMP). A pre-demolition inspection is also required, and failure to meet conditions during this inspection may result in re-inspection fees.

Structures built before 1978 may require an asbestos survey as part of the demolition permit process.

Converting Non-Living Spaces to Habitable Areas

Chino Hills permits the conversion of existing structures, such as garages, into habitable areas as part of their Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) regulations. These conversions are subject to specific guidelines outlined in the city's Development Code, which defines zoning districts and their associated regulations. ADUs, including those created by converting non-living spaces, are permitted in all residential zones, with specific guidelines for different zones.

The size limits for ADUs vary: detached ADUs can be up to 1,200 sqft, while attached ADUs can be up to 50% of the primary dwelling's living area or 1,200 sqft, whichever is less. State laws, such as AB 68 and SB 13, have streamlined the ADU approval process and reduced barriers for homeowners.

For detailed information on zoning and specific requirements for converting non-living spaces, it is advisable to consult the City's Development Code and Zoning Map, or contact the Community Development Department.

Fee Nuances and Inspection Stages

Permit fees in Chino Hills vary based on the project type and valuation. A 3.75% convenience fee is assessed on all credit/debit card transactions, and a $1.95 process fee is applied to e-check payments through the Virtual Development Services (VDS) online portal.

Re-inspection fees may be incurred if an inspector cannot access the property or if work is not ready for inspection on the scheduled day. A re-inspection fee of $133.00 is listed in the fee schedule.

Inspections are scheduled online through the Virtual Development Services customer portal. Next-day inspection requests must be received by 2:00 p.m.

For specific fee schedules and detailed information on inspection stages, refer to the City of Chino Hills' Master Schedule of Fees, Fines & Penalties and the Building Services Fee Schedule.

Resources to Learn More

Because Chino Hills is located within San Bernardino County, the following broader county regulations may also apply to your project:

California, San Bernardino County Remodeler Permit Regulations and County Ordinances for Unincorporated Areas

San Bernardino County Remodeling and Renovation Permit Requirements

The Building and Safety Division of San Bernardino County serves as the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for building permits in the county. This division is responsible for ensuring that all construction and renovation projects comply with state and local building codes, promoting public safety, health, and general welfare.

Unincorporated Areas

Properties located in unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County are subject to the county's building codes and permit requirements. These areas are not within the jurisdiction of any incorporated city, meaning the County Building and Safety Division directly oversees all building and safety regulations.

Demolition Work

Permit requirements for demolition work during a remodel in San Bernardino County depend on the scope of the demolition. Generally, any demolition that involves the removal of structural elements, or a significant portion of a building, will require a permit. This often includes the demolition of walls, roofs, or entire structures. It's crucial to consult with the Building and Safety Division to determine if a permit is needed for your specific demolition plans, as improper demolition can pose safety hazards and lead to code violations.

Converting Non-Living Spaces

Converting non-living spaces such as garages, attics, or unfinished basements into habitable living areas in San Bernardino County requires specific permits and adherence to building codes. These conversions are considered significant alterations and typically trigger the need for a building permit. The process involves ensuring that the converted space meets all requirements for habitable areas, including:

Structural integrity
Adequate insulation
Proper ventilation
Egress (emergency escape and rescue openings)
Electrical and plumbing upgrades
Fire safety measures

The definition of a "habitable space" generally refers to any space within a building intended for sleeping, living, cooking, or eating. Therefore, converting a garage or attic into a bedroom, family room, or kitchen will necessitate a permit to ensure the space is safe and up to code.

Resources to Learn More

San Bernardino County Building and Safety Division

The following statewide building codes and regulations apply universally to all jurisdictions within California:

California Remodeler Legislation, Codes, and Guidelines

California State Building Codes and Legislation for Remodelers and Residential Renovations

California's building codes are primarily governed by the California Building Standards Code, also known as Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. This code is updated on a triennial cycle, with new editions typically taking effect on January 1st of the year following publication. The most recent edition is the 2025 California Building Standards Code, effective January 1, 2026, which replaces the 2022 edition.

1. Adopted State Statutes and Codes

California adopts and amends national model codes to create its own building standards. Title 24 includes various parts that cover different aspects of construction, such as:

California Building Code (CBC), which incorporates the International Building Code (IBC) with California amendments.
California Residential Code (CRC), which applies to one- and two-family dwellings.
California Existing Building Code (CEBC), which addresses alterations and retrofits.
California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), focusing on sustainability.
California Energy Code, which applies to most significant renovations.
California Plumbing, Mechanical, Electrical, and Fire Codes.

The International Existing Building Code (IEBC) is not directly adopted by name, but its principles are integrated into the California Existing Building Code.

2. Primary State Board or Agencies

The California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) is the primary state agency responsible for managing the development, adoption, approval, publication, and implementation of California's building codes. The CBSC operates under the California Department of General Services (DGS). Several other state agencies are involved in the code adoption process, including the Department of Public Health, the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development, the Department of Housing and Community Development, the State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission (California Energy Commission), and the State Fire Marshal.

3. Classification of Remodels and Demolition Guidelines

California code generally distinguishes between "repairs" and "alterations" (renovations). Repairs typically involve fixing existing components without increasing energy consumption, while alterations involve changes to the building envelope or equipment, or changes in the use or occupancy of a space.

Cosmetic Remodels vs. Structural Alterations:

Cosmetic remodels, such as kitchen and bathroom updates, interior improvements, and non-structural alterations, are generally considered alterations. The B-2 Residential Remodeling Contractor license, for instance, is designed for extensive remodeling work that does not permit major structural modifications.
Structural alterations, such as converting attics or basements to habitable living spaces, changing walls, foundations, roofs, or load-bearing elements, typically require permits and are subject to more stringent code requirements. Converting an enclosed porch into a living space is considered an addition that must meet current code compliance.

The "50% Rule": A significant guideline is the "50% Rule," which states that if the cost of alterations or additions exceeds 50% of the building's value, the entire building must be brought up to current code standards, essentially treating it as new construction. This can trigger substantial upgrades, including fire and life safety requirements and energy efficiency standards.

Demolition Guidelines:

Demolition is generally defined as the razing, removal, deconstruction, salvaging, or wrecking of a structure or its components.
A demolition permit is typically required for the removal of an entire building or structure. However, demolition work associated with an addition or remodel may be covered under the permit for that project.
Specific demolition procedures are outlined in regulations, including requirements for utility shut-offs, protection of workers and the public, and proper disposal of waste materials.
Local jurisdictions may have supplemental regulations for demolition, including requirements related to environmental protection and historical preservation.

Resources to Learn More

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