Building in the City of Big Bear Lake
Located in the scenic San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, the City of Big Bear Lake offers a distinctive blend of resort‑community charm and development opportunity. Known for its natural beauty, recreational amenities and mountain‑town lifestyle, Big Bear Lake presents developers and investors with growth potential in residential, hospitality, commercial and infrastructure sectors—particularly in areas aligned with the city’s long‑term vision for sustainable, balanced development.
If you are planning a construction or development project within Big Bear Lake, your first point of contact should be the Community Development Department – Planning Division. The Planning Division administers the City’s General Plan, Zoning Code, Development Code and design review process, ensuring that new projects respond to the community’s values, environmental context and regulatory framework. The Division works collaboratively with architects, engineers and developers to guide projects from early concept through approvals, entitlements and permitting. citybigbearlake.com+1You can contact the Planning Division directly at (909) 866‑5831, or engage our experienced team of engineers and consultants to represent you through every stage of development. We can coordinate meetings with city officials, address technical and regulatory requirements—including environmental review and infrastructure coordination—and assist with plan submissions, review tracking and approval management from initial concept to final project completion.
Building and Development Process in The City of Big Bear Lake
1. Initial Project Planning
Before beginning your project, establish a clear vision and determine feasibility. Identify the type of development—residential, commercial, mixed-use, or infrastructure. Verify that your proposed use complies with the City’s General Plan and Zoning Code. Assess the site conditions, including accessibility, environmental factors, topography, and existing improvements. Estimate your budget and timeline for land acquisition, design, permitting, and construction while considering local constraints like snow loads, steep terrain, and utility access.
2. Pre-Application Consultation (Recommended)
Schedule a pre-application meeting with the Planning Division to discuss your project concept. This meeting helps identify zoning standards, special planning requirements, and potential issues early. You can review project scope, development standards (height limits, setbacks, lot coverage), and determine whether your project requires discretionary review (e.g., Plot Plan Review or Conditional Use Permit) or administrative approval. (citybigbearlake.com)
3. Submit a Development Application
Submit a complete application to the Planning Division, including project description, site and floor plans, elevations, landscape plans, and any required environmental documentation. The Planning Division reviews submissions for completeness and compliance with city regulations. Larger projects may require additional studies or public notice.
4. Design and Planning Review
Depending on project type, the Planning Division and Planning Commission may review your project. Discretionary projects involve public notice and hearings to ensure compatibility with the environment and community character. Conditions of approval may be applied to meet city standards.
5. Obtain Building Permits
Submit detailed construction drawings to the Building & Safety Division for plan check and permitting. The Division enforces the California Building Standards Code with local amendments. Required permits may include building, grading, encroachment, or demolition permits. Inspections are scheduled at key phases to ensure compliance. (citybigbearlake.com)
6. Coordinate Utilities and Infrastructure
Coordinate with the Engineering Division and relevant utility providers for water, sewer, stormwater, and energy connections. Street improvements or public right-of-way work may be required. Projects impacting city infrastructure must meet city engineering standards and receive inspection approval. (citybigbearlake.com)
7. Begin Construction
Construction begins under licensed contractors and engineers. Site preparation includes grading, excavation, and utility installation, followed by structural construction and systems installation (electrical, plumbing, mechanical). Inspections are conducted at foundation, framing, systems, and final stages.
8. Final Inspection and Certificate of Occupancy
Once construction is complete, request a final inspection from the Building & Safety Division. If all inspections are passed and conditions of approval are met, the City issues a Certificate of Occupancy, certifying that the structure is safe and approved for its intended use.
9. Project Closeout
After obtaining the Certificate of Occupancy, pay remaining fees, record final documents, and transition the property to occupancy, leasing, or business operations.
10. Long-Term Compliance
Maintain compliance with city regulations post-construction. Ensure buildings meet ongoing safety and property maintenance standards. Apply for review and approval for any future modifications or additions, and comply with periodic inspections for certain facilities.
The City of Big Bear Lake Planning Department plays a central role in the construction and development process. It manages the City’s General Plan, Zoning Code, and land-use regulations to ensure that all new development aligns with community standards, environmental considerations, and long-term planning goals. The department reviews development applications, coordinates discretionary approvals (such as Plot Plan Reviews or Conditional Use Permits), provides guidance on site planning and design, and works closely with developers, architects, and engineers to facilitate a smooth permitting process. Essentially, the Planning Department ensures that all projects are safe, sustainable, and compatible with the city’s unique mountain-lake environment.
The Building & Safety Division of Big Bear Lake is responsible for enforcing the California Building Standards Code and local building regulations to ensure that all construction within the city is safe, structurally sound, and compliant with approved plans. This department reviews construction drawings, issues permits for building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, grading, and demolition work, and conducts inspections throughout all phases of construction. By overseeing compliance with safety standards, the Building & Safety Division protects the public and ensures that every project meets both legal requirements and the city’s quality standards.
The Public Works Department of Big Bear Lake oversees the city’s infrastructure, streets, and public facilities to ensure safe and efficient community operations. This department manages the design, construction, and maintenance of roads, sidewalks, storm drains, water and sewer systems, and other public improvements. It coordinates with developers and engineers on projects that impact city rights-of-way or utilities, ensuring compliance with city engineering standards. By maintaining and improving the city’s infrastructure, the Public Works Department supports both private development and the overall economic growth and livability of Big Bear Lake.
Nestled in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake combines natural beauty with strategic development opportunities. The city continues to improve its infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and water systems, supporting both residential and commercial growth. Key projects, like the Replenish Big Bear water program and resort upgrades, enhance visitor amenities and community resilience. New housing developments and mixed-use projects contribute to economic expansion while maintaining the city’s unique mountain character, positioning Big Bear Lake for sustainable, year-round growth.
Building & Safety Division (for building permits)
Phone: (909) 866‑5831 – ask for Building & Safety (39707 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315) citybigbearlake.com+2citybigbearlake.com+2
Services: Issues permits for new construction, remodels/modifications, plumbing/mechanical/electrical systems in buildings; performs plan review and inspections. citybigbearlake.com+1
Public Works Department (for civil/infrastructure / engineering / right‑of‑way)
Phone: (909) 866‑5831 (General) citybigbearlake.com+1
Address: 39707 Big Bear Blvd., Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 citybigbearlake.com+1
Mission: Oversees city infrastructure and maintenance — streets, sidewalks, stormwater system, utilities, parks, rights‑of‑way improvements. citybigbearlake.com
Community Development Department (for planning, zoning, permits coordination)
Phone: (909) 866‑5831 citybigbearlake.com+1
Address: 39707 Big Bear Blvd., P.O. Box 10000, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 citybigbearlake.com+1
Role: Guides planning, development and preservation of the city; processes entitlements, zoning reviews, land‑use permits; works with Building & Safety and Public Works for full project compliance. citybigbearlake.com+1
