Building in the City of Chino Hills
Chino Hills, located in southwestern San Bernardino County, is a dynamic and well-planned city known for its scenic landscapes, strong community identity, and thoughtful approach to growth and development. As a fully incorporated city, Chino Hills operates under a comprehensive General Plan that establishes a long-term vision for sustainable development, environmental preservation, and a high quality of life for its residents. The city’s planning framework emphasizes balanced land use, responsible resource management, and the maintenance of Chino Hills’ distinctive suburban and semi-rural character.
The city’s zoning regulations divide Chino Hills into a range of districts—including residential, commercial, industrial, and open space zones—each governed by specific standards designed to ensure orderly and compatible development. Residential neighborhoods are complemented by commercial centers, schools, parks, and open spaces that create a cohesive, family-friendly community. Development is strategically concentrated near major transportation routes such as State Route 71 and the 60 Freeway, supporting accessibility while minimizing impacts on the city’s rolling hills, natural areas, and scenic vistas.
Chino Hills places a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship and open space preservation. Large portions of the city are dedicated to parks, trails, and natural habitats, including areas within the Chino Hills State Park and the city’s extensive trail system, which promote outdoor recreation and environmental conservation. These open spaces are key to the city’s identity and play a vital role in preserving its natural beauty and ecological health.
The city’s Housing Element guides residential development by promoting a variety of housing options that meet the needs of all income levels while maintaining high design and safety standards. Chino Hills works to provide affordable and market-rate housing that supports a diverse population, while ensuring that new residential areas integrate seamlessly with existing neighborhoods and surrounding open spaces.
Chino Hills’ future vision focuses on maintaining its strong sense of community, supporting sustainable economic development, and enhancing public infrastructure and services. The city continues to invest in transportation improvements, public safety, parks, and community facilities, ensuring that growth occurs in a way that upholds residents’ quality of life.
Through comprehensive planning, community engagement, and a commitment to environmental and fiscal sustainability, Chino Hills continues to thrive as a modern, well-balanced city that blends suburban comfort with natural beauty. Its dedication to thoughtful development and long-term resilience ensures that Chino Hills remains a desirable and vibrant community for generations to come.
Construction Process in the City of Chino Hills
1. Initial Project Planning
Begin your project in Chino Hills by defining its vision, scope, and feasibility—whether residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional. Review your property’s zoning designation, the City of Chino Hills General Plan, and the specific development standards outlined in the Chino Hills Municipal Code. Evaluate your site for access (streets, utilities, drainage), topography, hillside conditions, environmental sensitivity (such as proximity to open space or wildlife corridors), and infrastructure availability.
All construction, alterations, repairs, grading, and demolition activities in Chino Hills require appropriate city permits prior to commencement.
2. Pre-Application Consultation & Development Review
Before submitting a formal application, schedule a pre-application meeting with the Community Development Department, which includes the Planning Division and Building & Safety Division. This meeting helps you verify zoning compliance, identify necessary entitlements, and discuss your conceptual plans.
Depending on your project type, you may need additional approvals such as:
- Conditional Use Permit (CUP) – for land uses that require special review
- Design Review – for commercial, multifamily, or hillside projects
- Variance – for relief from specific zoning standards
Projects that may impact the natural environment, traffic, or nearby open space could require environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
3. Submit Your Permit and Application Package
After incorporating feedback from the pre-application meeting, submit your permit application through the City of Chino Hills’ online permitting portal or in person at City Hall. A complete application typically includes:
- Completed city permit application forms
- Site plan, floor plans, and elevations (as applicable)Grading and drainage plans for hillside or large-scale projects
- Required reports or studies (e.g., soils, geology, traffic, biological, or noise assessments)Construction valuation and applicable fees
Permits are required for all new construction, additions, remodels, grading, and structural modifications. Submitting all necessary materials early helps ensure efficient processing and minimizes review delays.
4. Plan-Check, Design & Code Review
Once received, your plans will undergo plan check and design review by the Building & Safety Division, ensuring compliance with the California Building Standards Code (including structural, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and energy codes) and the City of Chino Hills Municipal Code.
The Planning Division reviews zoning, land-use compatibility, and architectural design. For hillside areas or projects within environmentally sensitive zones, additional engineering or environmental studies may be required.
Chino Hills places strong emphasis on aesthetic design standards, especially for visible sites and commercial centers, to preserve the city’s high-quality visual character and community identity.
5. Permit Issuance & Infrastructure Coordination
After successful plan check approval and payment of required fees, the City of Chino Hills issues the building permit.
Before breaking ground, coordinate with local utility providers (water, sewer, electricity, gas, and telecommunications) to confirm service availability and connection requirements.
Developers may also need to coordinate with the Public Works Department regarding grading permits, stormwater management, traffic control plans, and off-site improvements. Compliance with the city’s stormwater pollution prevention (SWPPP) and erosion control standards is required for construction activities that disturb soil.
6. Construction & Inspections
Construction can begin once permits are issued. All work must be performed by licensed contractors and must strictly adhere to approved plans and city codes.
The Building & Safety Division conducts inspections at critical phases, such as:
- Foundation and footing
- Framing
- Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems
- Final inspection
Special attention is given to fire safety, grading stability, drainage, and erosion control, particularly for hillside developments. Any deviations from approved plans require review and written approval by the city before proceeding.
7. Final Inspection & Certificate of Occupancy
When construction is complete, request a final inspection from the Building & Safety Division. If all inspections are approved and the project complies with approved plans, the city will issue a Certificate of Occupancy (for new buildings) or Final Approval (for remodels or tenant improvements).
This document officially authorizes the building to be occupied or used for its intended purpose.
8. Project Close-Out
The close-out phase includes paying outstanding fees, submitting final as-built drawings, and completing all landscaping, grading, or off-site improvements as required by the city. Any public improvements or easements must be accepted and recorded before the project file can be closed.
Once all conditions of approval and inspection requirements are satisfied, the City of Chino Hills will officially close the permit and project record.
9. Ongoing Compliance & Future Modifications
Property owners in Chino Hills must maintain compliance with all city codes and property maintenance standards. Any future work—including additions, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), fences, signage, or changes in land use—must be reviewed and approved by the Planning and Building & Safety Divisions prior to construction.
Ongoing compliance helps preserve Chino Hills’ safety, environmental quality, and community appearance.
The Planning Division of the City of Chino Hills plays a vital role in guiding the city’s growth and development to promote long-term sustainability, environmental stewardship, and an exceptional quality of life for residents. The division manages land use, zoning, and community design to ensure that all new development, redevelopment, and public improvements align with the goals and policies established in the City’s General Plan and Municipal Code. By administering zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, and design guidelines, the Planning Division helps maintain Chino Hills’ distinctive suburban and semi-rural character while ensuring that development is compatible with surrounding neighborhoods and sensitive to the city’s unique natural landscape.
Planners within the division assist property owners, developers, and community members throughout the planning and entitlement process by reviewing site plans, verifying zoning compliance, evaluating environmental impacts, and ensuring compliance with state and local regulations, including the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The division collaborates closely with other city departments—such as Public Works, Building & Safety, and Community Services—to ensure that projects are functional, safe, and aligned with the city’s vision for well-planned, sustainable growth. Through this collaborative approach, the Planning Division ensures that each project contributes positively to Chino Hills’ long-term success, preserving its scenic beauty, strengthening its neighborhoods, and supporting a vibrant, family-oriented community.
The Building & Safety Division of the City of Chino Hills is responsible for ensuring that all construction within the city is safe, code-compliant, and consistent with local and state building regulations. The division administers and enforces the California Building Standards Code, along with city-adopted amendments that address Chino Hills’ unique topography and environmental conditions. By reviewing building plans, issuing permits, and conducting inspections at every stage of construction, the Building & Safety Division helps maintain high standards for structural integrity, fire safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency. This process ensures that new buildings, remodels, and additions contribute to the city’s long-term safety, sustainability, and visual quality.
In addition to its regulatory role, the division serves as an important resource for property owners, contractors, architects, and developers, guiding them through the permitting and inspection process. Staff members provide technical assistance, clarify code requirements, and coordinate closely with the Planning Division and Public Works Department to ensure that projects are completed according to approved plans and city standards. Through its commitment to public safety, customer service, and professional excellence, the Building & Safety Division supports Chino Hills’ mission to foster responsible development, protect community well-being, and preserve the city’s high-quality built environment.
The Public Works Department of the City of Chino Hills plays a key role in maintaining and improving the city’s essential infrastructure, ensuring that public facilities and services operate safely and efficiently. The department oversees the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the city’s streets, traffic systems, storm drains, and public buildings. It also manages vital infrastructure programs related to water, sewer, and stormwater systems, helping to protect public health and the environment. Through careful planning and investment, the Public Works Department ensures that Chino Hills’ infrastructure supports current community needs while accommodating future growth in a sustainable and resilient manner.
Beyond infrastructure management, the Public Works Department provides a wide range of services that enhance the city’s functionality and appearance. Staff coordinate with developers, utility providers, and other city divisions to review improvement plans, manage capital projects, and ensure that construction in the public right-of-way meets city standards. The department also plays an active role in maintaining public landscapes, parks infrastructure, and street maintenance programs, contributing to the city’s overall safety, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Through its dedication to quality service, innovation, and long-term infrastructure stewardship, the Public Works Department helps preserve the high quality of life that defines Chino Hills and supports the city’s vision of a well-maintained, thriving community.
Chino Hills, located in southwestern San Bernardino County, is a vibrant, fully incorporated city recognized for its scenic beauty, modern infrastructure, and commitment to thoughtful, community-oriented growth. Known for its rolling hills, open spaces, and well-planned neighborhoods, Chino Hills offers a high quality of life supported by excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and extensive parks and trail systems. The city’s infrastructure—including its roads, utilities, and public facilities—is well maintained and designed to support both current needs and future development in a sustainable manner.
Chino Hills has successfully balanced residential, commercial, and recreational growth while preserving its natural landscapes and suburban character. Its local economy continues to thrive, supported by retail, professional services, and small businesses, as well as convenient access to regional transportation corridors such as State Route 71 and the 60 Freeway. Through strategic planning, environmental stewardship, and strong community engagement, Chino Hills continues to grow as a modern, forward-thinking city that blends natural beauty with urban convenience—promoting long-term sustainability, livability, and a strong sense of community.
Building & Safety / Permits — City of Chino Hills
Phone: (909) 364-2780
Address: Chino Hills City Hall, 14000 City Center Drive, Chino Hills, CA 91709
Website/Application Portal: Chino Hills Building & Safety Division — for building permits, plan checks, construction codes, and inspection services.
Planning & Land Use Coordination — City of Chino Hills Planning Division
Phone: (909) 364-2750
Address: Chino Hills City Hall, 14000 City Center Drive, Chino Hills, CA 91709
Website: Chino Hills Planning Division — for zoning information, development standards, land-use policies, and design review applications.
Public Works / Infrastructure / Roads & Maintenance — City of Chino Hills Public Works Department
Phone: (909) 364-2800
Address: Chino Hills City Hall, 14000 City Center Drive, Chino Hills, CA 91709
Website/Info: Chino Hills Public Works Department — for road maintenance, water and sewer services, stormwater management, and public infrastructure projects.
