City of Redlands

Building in the City of Redlands
Redlands, California, is a historic and vibrant city located in San Bernardino County at the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains. Originally established in the late 19th century, the area grew around citrus agriculture, earning fame for its orange groves and contributions to Southern California’s citrus industry. The city officially incorporated in 1888, fostering a community that balances its rich agricultural and Victorian heritage with modern residential, commercial, and cultural growth.

Today, Redlands is home to approximately 73,000 residents and is known for its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and diverse neighborhoods. The city boasts a thriving downtown area with boutique shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including the Redlands Bowl, a historic outdoor amphitheater, and the Lincoln Memorial Shrine. Residents enjoy numerous parks, recreational facilities, and proximity to natural attractions such as the San Bernardino National Forest and nearby hiking and biking trails. Redlands is recognized for its strong public education system, vibrant arts scene, and commitment to community events, which collectively enhance its reputation as a desirable and welcoming Southern California city.

Redlands’ growth and development are guided by comprehensive planning and sustainability initiatives that honor its historical roots while supporting modern needs. Major transportation corridors, including Interstate 10 and Highway 38, provide regional connectivity for residents and businesses, while rail and bus services support local transit. The city invests in infrastructure improvements, historic preservation, and environmental stewardship, including water conservation and open space protection. At the same time, Redlands celebrates its heritage through citrus festivals, historic landmarks, and community traditions, ensuring that the city remains both forward-looking and deeply connected to its past—a thriving, inclusive community for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Construction Procedure in the City of Redlands
1. Initial Project Planning
‍Development in Redlands begins with careful early planning to ensure projects align with the City’s vision for responsible growth and preservation of its historic character. Applicants should first establish the project’s scope, goals, and feasibility while reviewing the property’s zoning designation, the Redlands General Plan, and relevant provisions of the Municipal Code. Evaluating site conditions early—including access, parking, utilities, drainage, environmental constraints, and proximity to schools, parks, and transit corridors—is essential. Redlands places strong emphasis on maintaining neighborhood character, protecting historic structures, preserving tree-lined streets, and integrating new development seamlessly with surrounding properties. Projects are encouraged to incorporate sustainable design practices, compatible architecture, and landscaping that enhances the community’s charm and livability.

‍2. Pre-Application Consultation and Staff Review
‍Before submitting formal plans, developers are encouraged to meet with the City’s Planning Division for a pre-application consultation. During this meeting, staff can identify required approvals such as Conditional Use Permits, Variances, Design Review, Subdivision Maps, or Development Agreements. Staff will also advise on whether environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is required. Guidance is provided on land use compatibility, historic preservation, site layout, parking, traffic impacts, and infrastructure capacity. Early coordination with the Planning Division helps streamline review, minimize delays, and ensure the project reflects Redlands’ General Plan policies and community expectations.

‍3. Application Submittal
‍Once the project concept is refined, applicants submit a complete development application to the City. Submittals typically include site plans, floor plans, elevations, landscape plans, and technical studies addressing traffic, drainage, environmental impacts, or geotechnical conditions. Larger-scale developments, such as multi-family housing, commercial centers, or mixed-use projects, may require detailed CEQA documentation. A thorough application allows Planning, Building & Safety, and Public Works staff to coordinate their review efficiently and provide comprehensive feedback.

‍4. Plan Check, Design, and Code Compliance Review
‍After submittal, the project undergoes review by multiple City departments. The Planning Division evaluates compliance with zoning, design standards, historic preservation requirements, and the overall compatibility of the project with Redlands’ community character. Building & Safety reviews structural, electrical, mechanical, accessibility, and fire safety compliance under the California Building Standards Code. Public Works evaluates grading, drainage, utility connections, and impacts on existing infrastructure. Staff may request revisions to ensure the project meets City codes, policies, and Redlands’ high expectations for neighborhood integration and historic context.

‍5. Permit Issuance and Infrastructure Coordination
‍Once all departmental reviews are complete and any necessary revisions have been addressed, the City issues the required building, grading, and construction permits. Developers must coordinate with local utility providers for water, sewer, power, and telecommunications services. Public Works staff inspect and approve any public infrastructure improvements, including streets, sidewalks, drainage systems, and utilities, ensuring they meet Redlands’ engineering standards and integrate smoothly with the surrounding community.

‍6. Construction and Inspections
‍Construction may begin once all permits are issued. All work must comply with approved plans, permit conditions, and applicable codes. Building & Safety inspectors conduct inspections at key stages, such as foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and fire systems. Public Works inspects public improvements including roads, utilities, and right-of-way work. Any field changes to the approved plans must be reviewed and approved by the City to maintain compliance with safety standards and project requirements.

‍7. Final Inspection and Certificate of Occupancy
‍Upon completion of construction, the Building & Safety Division performs a final inspection to ensure that the project complies with approved plans, applicable codes, and permit conditions. If all requirements are satisfied, the City issues a Certificate of Occupancy for new buildings or Final Approval for remodels or tenant improvements. This confirms that the structure is safe and suitable for its intended use.

‍8. Project Close-Out
‍During project close-out, developers must complete remaining obligations, including final landscaping, signage, and public improvements. As-built drawings reflecting any field changes must be submitted to the City for recordkeeping. Public Works conducts final inspections, and any performance or maintenance bonds may be released upon satisfactory completion. The project is formally closed once the City accepts all improvements and ensures full compliance with applicable standards.

‍9. Ongoing Compliance and Future Modifications
‍After project completion, property owners must maintain compliance with the Redlands Municipal Code, Zoning Ordinance, and other applicable regulations. Any future modifications, such as additions, façade changes, signage updates, or land-use alterations, require City review and approval. Maintaining ongoing compliance helps preserve Redlands’ historic character, supports neighborhood cohesion, and promotes the city’s vision of a vibrant, sustainable, and well-planned community.‍