City of Pomona

Building in the City of Pomona
Pomona, California, is a historic and culturally diverse city located in eastern Los Angeles County, situated between the San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Approximately 30 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, Pomona benefits from major transportation corridors—including the I-10, SR-60, and SR-71 freeways—and Metrolink’s Riverside Line, providing strong regional connectivity. The city is bordered by Claremont, La Verne, San Dimas, Diamond Bar, Chino Hills, and unincorporated county areas, offering convenient access to regional amenities while maintaining its distinct urban identity shaped by diverse neighborhoods, historic districts, vibrant commercial areas, and key institutions such as Cal Poly Pomona, the Fairplex, and the Pomona Arts Colony.

Since its incorporation in 1888, Pomona has focused on strengthening infrastructure and supporting sustainable community growth. Investments in roadway improvements, pedestrian and bicycle facilities, stormwater systems, utility modernization, and streetscape enhancements have contributed to safer, more connected neighborhoods. Revitalization efforts in Downtown Pomona and transit-oriented districts, combined with water-efficient landscaping, green infrastructure, and energy-conscious building practices, reflect the city’s commitment to environmental responsibility and high-quality urban environments.

Pomona continues to pursue long-term planning priorities centered on mobility, economic vitality, and quality of life. The expansion of public transit—including the future Metro L Line (Gold Line) extension—supports transit-oriented development and enhanced access to jobs, education, and services. Ongoing improvements to commercial corridors, parks, and civic spaces, along with strategic investment in housing and redevelopment areas, reinforce Pomona’s vision for a resilient and thriving community. These initiatives balance new development with preservation of the city’s architectural and cultural heritage, ensuring Pomona remains inclusive, forward-thinking, and responsive to the needs of residents, businesses, and visitors.

Construction Procedure in the City of Pomona
‍1. INITIAL PROJECT PLANNING
‍Every successful development project in Pomona begins with careful and strategic planning. Developers and property owners should define the project’s vision, scope, and feasibility by reviewing the property’s zoning designation, the City’s General Plan, and applicable provisions of the Pomona Municipal Code. Early evaluation of site conditions—including access, parking, utilities, drainage, environmental constraints, and proximity to schools, parks, transportation corridors, and commercial or industrial districts—is essential. Pomona encourages the incorporation of sustainable design practices, energy-efficient technologies, and landscaping suited to the city’s climate and urban character. These efforts help enhance neighborhoods, strengthen commercial corridors, and support Pomona’s ongoing revitalization and community development goals.

‍2. PRE-APPLICATION CONSULTATION AND DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
‍Before submitting formal plans, applicants are strongly encouraged to meet with Pomona’s Development Services Department – Planning Division for a pre-application consultation. Staff will identify necessary entitlements such as Conditional Use Permits, Variances, Design Review, Subdivision Maps, or Development Agreements, and determine whether California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review is required. Discussions address land use compatibility, site layout, traffic and circulation impacts, infrastructure capacity, and consistency with the City’s long-range plans. Early coordination with staff helps streamline the review process, minimize delays, and ensure that proposals align with Pomona’s planning goals, economic development strategies, and community preservation objectives.

‍3. PERMIT AND APPLICATION SUBMITTAL
‍Once a project concept is finalized, applicants submit a complete development application to the City of Pomona. Required submittals typically include site plans, floor plans, elevations, landscape plans, and technical studies addressing stormwater, traffic, environmental impacts, or geotechnical conditions. Larger-scale developments—such as multi-family housing, industrial facilities, commercial centers, or public institutions—may require CEQA documentation, including an Initial Study, Mitigated Negative Declaration, or Environmental Impact Report (EIR). A detailed and complete submittal allows for coordinated review by Planning, Building & Safety, Public Works, and other relevant departments.

‍4. PLAN CHECK, DESIGN, AND CODE REVIEW
‍Following submission, the project undergoes a multi-departmental review. The Planning Division evaluates zoning, land use, development standards, and design compliance. The Building & Safety Division reviews structural, fire, accessibility, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems under the California Building Standards Code. The Public Works/Engineering Division assesses grading, drainage, stormwater management, utility connections, and roadway or traffic impacts. Pomona may require design review to ensure compatibility with surrounding neighborhoods and commercial areas. Staff may request revisions or additional information to ensure full compliance with city codes, state laws, and adopted policies.

‍5. PERMIT ISSUANCE AND INFRASTRUCTURE COORDINATION
‍Once all departments have approved the plans and conditions have been met, Pomona issues the necessary building, grading, and construction permits. Developers work with local and regional utility providers for water, sewer, electricity, gas, and telecommunications services. Public Works staff review and inspect required public improvements—including streets, sidewalks, stormwater facilities, and utility connections—to ensure they meet City standards and integrate properly with existing systems.

‍6. CONSTRUCTION AND INSPECTIONS
‍Construction may begin once all permits are issued. All work must follow approved plans, permit conditions, and applicable codes. Building & Safety inspectors conduct inspections at crucial phases, such as foundation, framing, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and final completion. Public Works staff inspect public infrastructure as well as right-of-way improvements, grading, and stormwater systems. Any field changes or plan modifications must be reviewed and approved by the City to maintain code compliance and ensure safety.

‍7. FINAL INSPECTION AND CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
‍Upon project completion, the Building & Safety Division performs a final inspection to verify compliance with plans, permit conditions, and building codes. When all requirements are met, the City issues a Certificate of Occupancy for new buildings or a Final Approval for remodels, tenant improvements, or other construction activities. This confirms the building is safe, code-compliant, and ready for its intended use.

‍8. PROJECT CLOSE-OUT
‍During close-out, developers complete all remaining obligations, including final landscaping, signage, and public improvements required as part of project approval. “As-built” drawings reflecting any approved field changes must be submitted for City records. Public Works conducts final inspections of infrastructure, and performance or maintenance bonds may be released once all improvements are completed to City satisfaction. This marks formal acceptance of the project by the City of Pomona.

‍9. ONGOING COMPLIANCE AND FUTURE MODIFICATIONS
‍After construction is complete, property owners must maintain ongoing compliance with the Pomona Municipal Code, zoning regulations, and Building & Safety standards. Any future modifications—such as additions, façade upgrades, signage changes, or alterations in land use—require City review and approval. Continued adherence to regulations ensures that Pomona’s neighborhoods, business districts, industrial areas, and public spaces remain safe, visually cohesive, and aligned with the City’s long-term goals for sustainable development, community revitalization, and preservation of local character.