Building in the City of Loma Linda
Loma Linda, California is a distinguished and close‑knit community located in San Bernardino County, in the heart of the Inland Empire. Positioned near the I‑10 freeway and within reach of the San Bernardino and San Jacinto Mountains, the city offers accessible connections to regional employment centers, education institutions, and recreational amenities. Known for its focus on health, wellness, and quality of life, Loma Linda combines a residential refuge with modern infrastructure and a globally recognized medical and research footprint. lomalinda-ca.gov+2lomalinda-ca.gov+2
The city’s neighborhoods reflect a harmonious blend of well‑established homes, newer housing developments, and mixed‑use residential areas, all situated amid hills, open spaces, and tree‑lined streets. Parks, trails and outdoor recreation opportunities abound as Loma Linda builds on its natural landscape and supportive community infrastructure. Residents also benefit from local retail, services, and the strong presence of institutions like the medical center and university, which support amenities, jobs, and community resources. Homes+1
With a well‑earned reputation for innovation, wellness and responsible development, Loma Linda continues to advance infrastructure, connectivity and community engagement. The city emphasizes sustainable growth, quality design, and long‑term planning that supports both the local population and regional workforce. Its commitment to health‑centered living, access to major educational and medical institutions, and balanced urban‑suburban character make Loma Linda an appealing destination for families, professionals, and enterprises seeking stability and vision. lomalinda-ca.gov+1
Construction Procedure in the City of Loma Linda
1. Initial Project Planning
Every successful development project in Loma Linda begins with careful and comprehensive planning. Developers start by defining the project’s vision, scope, and feasibility, including a review of the property’s zoning designation, the City’s General Plan, Municipal Code, and any applicable specific plans. Early evaluation of site conditions—such as access, circulation, parking, utilities, drainage, and topography—is essential. Developers should also consider environmental constraints, sustainability practices, and compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods and Loma Linda’s focus on health, wellness, and quality of life. Attention to architectural character, landscaping, and community integration ensures that each project aligns with the city’s goals for high-quality, sustainable, and well-designed development.
2. Pre-Application Consultation and Development Review
Before submitting formal plans, developers are encouraged to meet with Loma Linda’s Planning Division. Pre-application consultations help identify required entitlements—such as Conditional Use Permits, Design Review, Zone Changes, or subdivision maps—and determine whether environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is required. Planning staff provide preliminary guidance on land use compatibility, infrastructure capacity, traffic, and site layout. Early coordination streamlines the review process, reduces delays, and ensures projects meet Loma Linda’s planning objectives, design standards, and community expectations.
3. Permit and Application Submittal
Once the project concept is finalized, developers submit a complete application package to the City. Typical submittals include detailed site plans, building elevations, landscape plans, and technical studies covering drainage, traffic, and environmental impacts. Larger or more complex projects—such as multifamily housing, mixed-use developments, or institutional projects—may also require CEQA documentation, such as a Mitigated Negative Declaration or Environmental Impact Report. A thorough and complete submittal facilitates efficient interdepartmental review and ensures staff can fully evaluate the proposal.
4. Plan Check, Design, and Code Review
After submission, the project enters Loma Linda’s detailed review process. The Planning Division verifies compliance with zoning, land use, and design policies. The Building & Safety Division ensures plans meet California Building Standards Code requirements, including structural, fire, accessibility, and mechanical standards. The Public Works/Engineering Division reviews grading, drainage, utility connections, and public infrastructure improvements. CEQA environmental review may occur concurrently. Staff provide comments and may request revisions or clarifications before approval.
5. Permit Issuance and Infrastructure Coordination
Once all departmental reviews are complete and conditions of approval are satisfied, Loma Linda issues the necessary building, grading, and construction permits. Developers coordinate with utility providers for water, sewer, power, and gas connections. The Public Works/Engineering Division inspects and approves public infrastructure improvements—including sidewalks, street lighting, stormwater systems, and roadway upgrades—ensuring compliance with City standards. This coordination ensures smooth construction and integration with Loma Linda’s existing infrastructure.
6. Construction and Inspections
Construction can begin only after all required permits are issued. All work must follow approved plans, permit conditions, and applicable codes. The Building & Safety Division conducts inspections at critical stages—including foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and final completion—to verify compliance. The Engineering Division inspects public improvements, right-of-way work, and drainage systems. Any field modifications must be approved by the City to maintain safety, code compliance, and project quality.
7. Final Inspection and Certificate of Occupancy
Upon project completion, the Building & Safety Division performs a final inspection to confirm compliance with approved plans, codes, and conditions. Once all requirements are met, the City issues a Certificate of Occupancy for new buildings or a Final Approval for remodels and tenant improvements. This ensures that structures are safe, code-compliant, and suitable for their intended use.
8. Project Close-Out
During project close-out, developers complete any remaining obligations, such as final landscaping, signage, or public improvements. “As-built” drawings reflecting approved field changes must be submitted to the City for recordkeeping. The Engineering Division conducts a final review of public infrastructure, and performance or maintenance bonds may be released upon satisfactory completion. This ensures formal acceptance of the project by Loma Linda.
9. Ongoing Compliance and Future Modifications
After project completion, property owners must maintain compliance with Loma Linda’s Municipal Code, Zoning Ordinance, and Building & Safety standards. Any future modifications—such as additions, façade improvements, new signage, or changes in land use—require review and approval by the City. Continued compliance ensures Loma Linda’s neighborhoods remain safe, attractive, and consistent with the City’s vision for well-planned, sustainable, and community-oriented development.
Planning Division
Address: 25541 Barton Road, Loma Linda, CA 92354 lomalinda-ca.gov+2lomalinda-ca.gov+2
Phone: (909) 799‑2830 (main line) lomalinda-ca.gov+1
Email: planning@lomalinda‑ca.gov (for zoning questions) lomalinda-ca.gov
Building & Safety Division
Address: 25541 Barton Road, Loma Linda, CA 92354 lomalinda-ca.gov+1
Phone: (909) 799‑2836 lomalinda-ca.gov+1
Email: building@lomalinda‑ca.gov (for general building inquiries) lomalinda-ca.gov
Public Works / Engineering Division
Address: 25541 Barton Road, Loma Linda, CA 92354 cdnsm5-hosted.civiclive.com+1
Phone: (909) 799‑4400 lomalinda-ca.gov
Fax: (909) 799‑2891 cdnsm5-hosted.civiclive.com
The Planning Division in Loma Linda guides the city’s growth and development through careful management of land use, zoning, and long-range planning. The division implements the City’s General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and specific plans to ensure that new development aligns with Loma Linda’s vision of a sustainable, safe, and well-designed community. Staff review residential, commercial, institutional, and mixed-use projects for compliance with design standards, site planning requirements, and environmental regulations under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
In addition to reviewing applications, the Planning Division collaborates with developers, architects, engineers, and community members to process entitlements such as Conditional Use Permits, Design Review, and zone changes. By providing guidance and feedback throughout the development process, the division ensures that new projects are compatible with existing neighborhoods, enhance community livability, and support Loma Linda’s long-term growth objectives.
The Building & Safety Division ensures that all construction in Loma Linda meets local, state, and federal building standards. Staff review building plans for structural, fire, mechanical, electrical, and accessibility compliance, providing guidance to developers, contractors, and property owners throughout the construction process. Inspections at critical stages—such as foundation, framing, plumbing, and final completion—help maintain safety and quality standards.
Beyond plan review and inspections, the division plays a key role in enforcing the California Building Standards Code and supporting code compliance for remodels, tenant improvements, and new construction. By maintaining rigorous safety and code oversight, the Building & Safety Division helps protect residents, businesses, and visitors while ensuring that Loma Linda’s built environment remains resilient, functional, and attractive.
The Public Works and Engineering Division manages the city’s infrastructure and ensures that public improvements meet safety, functionality, and design standards. This includes maintaining streets, sidewalks, drainage systems, street lighting, and other public utilities. The division coordinates closely with developers during construction projects to ensure that infrastructure upgrades and connections are safe, efficient, and integrated with the city’s existing systems.
Additionally, the Public Works Division supports long-term planning for Loma Linda’s infrastructure, addressing water management, stormwater systems, traffic circulation, and public facilities. Through proactive maintenance, upgrades, and collaboration with other city departments, the division helps sustain a high quality of life for residents and ensures that the city’s infrastructure keeps pace with growth and community needs.
Loma Linda has steadily invested in its infrastructure and community development to support growth while maintaining its identity as a healthy and sustainable city. Street improvements, stormwater management, utility upgrades, and public facility enhancements contribute to safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing neighborhoods.
The city’s development focus emphasizes sustainable growth, high-quality design, and compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods. By balancing new construction, redevelopment, and infrastructure improvements, Loma Linda continues to create an environment that supports residents, businesses, and institutions while maintaining its vision as a vibrant, forward-looking, and community-oriented city.
