City of Fontana

Building in the City of Fontana
Fontana is a vibrant and growing city located in the heart of California’s Inland Empire, nestled at the base of the San Bernardino Mountains. Once known primarily as an agricultural and industrial community, Fontana has evolved into a dynamic urban center offering a balanced mix of residential neighborhoods, business districts, and recreational amenities. With its convenient location along Interstate 10 and Interstate 15, the city provides excellent connectivity to Los Angeles, Riverside, and the High Desert. Fontana’s residents enjoy a variety of parks, trails, and cultural attractions, including the Auto Club Speedway, the Mary Vagle Nature Center, and the historic downtown area, which continues to develop as a community hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Fontana’s economy is supported by a diverse range of industries, including logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. The city’s strategic location and robust infrastructure have made it a major hub for transportation and distribution in Southern California. At the same time, Fontana maintains a strong sense of community, with family-oriented neighborhoods, highly regarded schools, and a wide array of public programs that promote wellness and engagement. Local events such as the Fontana Days Festival and weekly farmers markets foster a welcoming and connected atmosphere. With its combination of economic opportunity, modern amenities, and proximity to both nature and major metropolitan areas, Fontana offers residents a well-rounded and forward-looking place to live, work, and thrive.

Construction Procedure in the City of Fontana
1. Initial Project Planning
The first step in any development project in Fontana is to clearly define the project’s vision, scope, and feasibility. Whether the project is residential, commercial, or mixed-use, it is essential to review the property’s zoning designation and consult Fontana’s General Plan and the City of Fontana Municipal Code. Developers should also consider key site-specific factors such as access to major roads, utilities, drainage, topography, and potential environmental impacts. Early planning is critical to prevent delays, ensure regulatory compliance, and align the project with Fontana’s vision for sustainable growth.

2. Pre-Application Consultation & Development Review
Before submitting formal applications, developers should schedule a pre-application consultation with the City of Fontana Planning Division. This meeting helps verify zoning compliance, review consistency with the General Plan, and determine whether additional approvals—such as Conditional Use Permits (CUPs), Variances, or Specific Plan compliance—are necessary. Early consultation helps identify potential obstacles, streamlines the approval process, and ensures projects support Fontana’s goals for balanced growth, community compatibility, and environmental responsibility.

‍3. Submit Your Permit and Application Package
Once project plans are finalized, submit a complete application package to the City of Fontana Planning Division and the Building & Safety Division. The package typically includes permit application forms, site plans, floor plans, building elevations, and any required technical studies such as traffic impact analyses, drainage reports, or environmental assessments. Additional documentation may be needed depending on the project’s complexity, including grading plans or arborist reports. Including all applicable fees ensures timely processing.

‍4. Plan-Check, Design & Code Review
After submission, the city will review the project for compliance with local and state regulations. The Building & Safety Division ensures adherence to the California Building Standards Code, including structural, electrical, plumbing, and energy requirements. The Planning Division reviews zoning compliance, land-use compatibility, and design standards to maintain Fontana’s community character. The Public Works Department evaluates impacts on infrastructure, including streets, stormwater systems, and utilities. Projects may also require environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

‍5. Permit Issuance & Infrastructure Coordination
Once plan-check approvals are complete and all fees are paid, the city will issue construction permits. Developers must coordinate with local utility providers for connections to water, sewer, gas, and electricity. Public infrastructure improvements—such as road widening, sidewalk construction, or drainage enhancements—require coordination with the Public Works Department. Any work affecting public rights-of-way or city-managed infrastructure must be reviewed and approved by Public Works.

‍6. Construction & Inspections
With permits in hand, construction can begin. All work must be performed by licensed contractors and follow approved plans. Periodic inspections are required throughout construction, including foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work. Public infrastructure improvements will also be inspected for compliance with city standards. Any deviations from approved plans must be submitted for review and approval before continuing construction.

‍7. Final Inspection & Certificate of Occupancy (or Final Approval)
After construction is completed and any required corrections are made, developers can request a final inspection. If the project meets all codes, regulations, and conditions of approval, the Building & Safety Division will issue a Certificate of Occupancy for new buildings or Final Approval for remodels and tenant improvements. This certificate confirms that the project is safe, compliant, and ready for occupancy.

‍8. Project Close-Out
Project close-out involves completing any remaining conditions of approval, such as submitting as-built drawings, finalizing landscaping, and addressing off-site improvements. Once verified by the city, the project file is closed. Ensuring all documentation is submitted and conditions met avoids future complications or delays.

‍9. Ongoing Compliance & Future Modifications
Even after project completion, ongoing compliance with city codes and development standards is required. Any future modifications—such as accessory structures, land-use changes, signage, or fencing—must be reviewed and approved by the Planning Division, Building & Safety Division, and other relevant departments. This ensures future work aligns with Fontana’s long-term goals for growth, community compatibility, and public safety.‍