Building in the City of Colton
Colton is located in San Bernardino County in the Inland Empire region of Southern California and is known historically as the “Hub City” for its strategic transportation role at the intersection of rail, freeway and logistics corridors. coltonchamber.org+1 With available land, a “can-do” attitude toward economic development and strong regional connectivity, Colton continues to evolve as a center for commerce, housing and community life. coltonca.gov+2coltonmeansbusiness.com+2
The city has blended its industrial and transportation roots with a commitment to quality of life by focusing on education, health care, housing affordability, recreation, arts and culture. coltonmeansbusiness.com+1
Colton takes advantage of its location near the junction of Interstate 10 and Interstate 215 and its historic rail infrastructure to support business growth, manufacturing, logistics and commerce, while seeking to offer the benefits of Southern California living at lower cost and less congestion. coltonmeansbusiness.com+1
Looking ahead, Colton’s vision emphasizes strengthening economic vitality through business attraction, infrastructure and utility investment, sustainable community development, housing for a diverse population, and leveraging its transportation and logistics assets. With its heritage as a crossroads and its commitment to providing opportunity for residents and businesses alike, Colton continues to transform into a resilient, inclusive and connected city that supports both economic growth and livability. coltonmeansbusiness.com
Construction Process in the City of Colton
1. Initial Project Planning
Begin by defining your project’s vision, scope, and feasibility—whether residential, commercial, institutional, or other development. Review your property’s zoning designation, the City of Colton General Plan, and the applicable development standards such as the Zoning Ordinance and any Specific Plans. Assess site‑specific factors such as street and utility access, drainage, topography, environmental sensitivity, and infrastructure availability. All construction, additions, grading, demolition, or significant remodels in Colton must follow the city’s permitting and code‑compliance processes.
2. Pre‑Application Consultation & Development Review
Schedule a consultation with the City of Colton Development Services Department, which includes the Planning Division, Building & Safety, Public Works/Engineering, and utility review as appropriate. This consultation allows you to verify zoning compliance, identify required approvals (such as Conditional Use Permits, design review, variances, or Specific Plan compliance), and review conceptual plans. Early coordination helps avoid delays.
3. Submit Your Permit and Application Package
After incorporating feedback from the pre‑application stage, submit a complete application via the City of Colton’s portal or in person at the Development Services Department. Typical submissions include completed city permit application forms, site plans, floor plans and elevations (where applicable), grading/drainage/landscape plans for larger or site‑specific projects, supporting reports or studies (e.g., soils, geology, traffic, biological, noise assessments), construction valuation, and applicable fees.
4. Plan‑Check, Design & Code Review
Submitted plans are reviewed by the Building & Safety staff for compliance with California Building Standards Codes (structural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, energy) and by the Planning Division for zoning compliance, land‑use compatibility, architectural and site design. The Engineering/Public Works group reviews improvements in public right‑of‑way, grading and drainage, and utility/water infrastructure. Projects in environmentally sensitive areas may also trigger additional environmental review.
5. Permit Issuance & Infrastructure Coordination
Once all plan checks are approved and required fees submitted, the City issues the building permit and any other entitlements required. Coordination is needed with utility providers (water, sewer, electricity, gas) and with Public Works/Engineering for off‑site improvements, stormwater management, street and traffic improvements, or other conditions of approval. The Engineering Division handles permits for work in public rights‑of‑way, grading, and encroachment.
6. Construction & Inspections
Construction may begin after permits are issued. Licensed contractors must perform work in conformance with approved plans. The City conducts inspections at key phases—foundation, footings, framing, electrical/plumbing/mechanical systems, final inspection—and also checks public improvements, grading, erosion control, and site drainage as required. Any deviations from the approved plans should be submitted and approved before proceeding.
7.Final Inspection & Certificate of Occupancy (or Final Approval)
Upon completion of construction and corrective actions, request a final inspection from the Building & Safety Division. If all work complies with the approved plans and conditions of approval, the City issues a Certificate of Occupancy for new buildings or a Final Approval for tenant improvements or remodels.
8. Project Close‑Out
Close‑out includes payment of any outstanding fees, submission of as‑built drawings, completion of required landscaping, grading, off‑site improvements, and acceptance of any public improvements or easements. Once all conditions of approval and inspections are satisfied, the permit record may be closed.
9. Ongoing Compliance & Future Modifications
Property owners in Colton must maintain compliance with municipal codes and maintenance standards. Any future modifications—including additions, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), fences, signage, or change of land use—must be reviewed and approved by the Planning Division, Building & Safety, and other relevant departments before construction begins. Ongoing compliance supports safety, environmental quality, livability, and the City’s long‑term planning goals.
The Planning Division of the City of Colton plays a central role in guiding the city’s growth and development to promote orderly, sustainable expansion, preservation of community character, and a high quality of life for residents. The division oversees land use, zoning, subdivision, and community design to ensure that all new development, redevelopment, and public improvements comply with the city’s General Plan, specific plans, and the Municipal Code. By administering zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, sign regulations, and design guidelines—including environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)—the Planning Division helps maintain Colton’s character, direct growth in a responsible manner, and address the city’s evolving needs.
Planners assist property owners, developers, and community members through the entitlement and planning process by reviewing site plans, ensuring zoning compliance, processing subdivisions, evaluating environmental impacts, and verifying adherence to state and local regulations. The division coordinates closely with other city departments—such as Building & Safety, Engineering/Public Works, and Development Services—to ensure that projects are safe, functional, and aligned with Colton’s vision for well-planned growth. Through this collaborative and structured approach, the Planning Division ensures that each project enhances Colton’s neighborhoods, preserves community character, supports infrastructure and design standards, and contributes to a vibrant, sustainable, and connected city.
The Building & Safety Division of the City of Colton is responsible for ensuring that construction within the city meets all applicable safety, structural, and code requirements. The division administers building permits, plan checks, inspections, and code enforcement to protect public health, safety, and welfare. By enforcing the California Building Standards Code, local amendments, and the Colton Municipal Code, the Building & Safety Division helps ensure that all residential, commercial, and public construction projects are safe, structurally sound, and compliant with current regulations.
Staff assist property owners, developers, and contractors throughout the construction process by reviewing permit applications, checking plans for code compliance, conducting inspections at critical stages, and providing guidance on code requirements. The division works closely with other city departments—including Planning, Engineering/Public Works, and Fire Prevention—to ensure that projects meet design, zoning, and safety standards. Through this coordinated and rigorous approach, the Building & Safety Division safeguards the community, promotes high-quality construction, and supports Colton’s long-term growth and development goals.
The Public Works Department of the City of Colton is responsible for planning, designing, constructing, and maintaining the city’s infrastructure to support public safety, mobility, and quality of life. The department manages streets, sidewalks, stormwater systems, water and sewer utilities, traffic control, and other public facilities, ensuring that both existing and new infrastructure meet city standards and community needs.
Public Works staff coordinate with developers, property owners, and other city departments—including Planning and Building & Safety—to review development projects, manage capital improvement programs, and ensure compliance with city regulations and environmental standards. The department also oversees maintenance programs, emergency response for public infrastructure, and long-term planning to support sustainable growth and resilience.
Through these efforts, the Public Works Department helps maintain Colton’s community assets, enhances public safety, supports economic development, and ensures the city’s infrastructure can accommodate growth while preserving quality of life for residents.
Colton, located in western San Bernardino County at the base of the San Bernardino Mountains, is a growing, full-service city known for its historic roots, diverse community, and strong sense of local pride. Once a key agricultural and railroad hub, Colton has evolved into a vibrant city that balances its rich history with modern development and economic growth. The city is recognized for its family-friendly neighborhoods, community events, and role as an important center for commerce, transportation, and culture in the Inland Empire.
Colton’s infrastructure—including streets, parks, water and sewer systems, and public facilities—is actively managed to meet the needs of residents and businesses while supporting sustainable growth and public safety. The city’s economy is supported by logistics, manufacturing, retail, small business, and service industries, creating opportunities for both residents and investors.
Through strategic planning, infrastructure improvements, and community engagement, Colton continues to strengthen its position as a dynamic and forward-looking city. By prioritizing quality of life, economic vitality, and inclusive growth, Colton blends its historic character with a vision for sustainable development—building a connected, resilient, and thriving community for all who call it home.
Building & Safety / Permits — City of Colton
Phone: (909) 370-5079
Address: 659 N. La Cadena Drive, Colton, CA 92324
Services: Building permits, plan checks, construction codes, inspection services — including building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits.
Planning & Land Use Coordination — City of Colton Planning Division
Phone: (909) 370-5071
Address: 659 N. La Cadena Drive, Colton, CA 92324
Services: Zoning information, development standards, land-use policies, subdivision processing, design review, and environmental review (CEQA).
Public Works / Infrastructure / Roads & Maintenance — City of Colton Public Works Department
Phone: (909) 370-5079
Address: 659 N. La Cadena Drive, Colton, CA 92324
Services: Street and sidewalk maintenance, water and sewer services, stormwater management, traffic control, and public infrastructure projects.
