San Bernardino Sewer Connection Fees & Permits

Utilities and Infrastructure California 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 10, 2026 Flag of California

San Bernardino, California property owners and contractors must follow city rules when connecting to the municipal sewer system. This guide explains where authority resides, how permits and fees are typically handled, enforcement pathways, and practical steps to apply, pay, or appeal. It summarizes official code references and department contacts so you can act quickly and comply with local requirements.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of San Bernardino municipal code contains provisions governing sewer connections and illegal discharges; specific penalty amounts for violations are not specified on the cited page. City code and related provisions[1].

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page; consult the municipal code for any adopted schedules.[1]
  • Escalation: the code refers to initial and continuing violations but specific first/repeat ranges are not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to cease work, correction notices, stop-work orders, and civil actions may be used where authorized by code.[1]
  • Enforcer and inspection: enforcement is handled by City departments such as Public Works and Community Development; for reporting and compliance contact the City Public Works office directly. Public Works contact[2]
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes are set out in the municipal code or departmental rules; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page and must be confirmed with the enforcing office.[1]
If you receive a notice, act promptly to avoid escalation.

Applications & Forms

Application forms for sewer connection permits may be available from the City Public Works or Community Development/Building divisions. If no form is published online, submit a written permit request to the enforcing department listed above.[2]

  • Name/number: specific permit form not published on the cited municipal page; contact Public Works for the current application.
  • Fees: fee schedules for connection or inspection are not specified on the cited municipal code page; ask the Public Works or Finance office for the current schedule.
  • Submission: file with the City department indicated on the permit instructions; some applications may require in-person submission or electronic submittal via the City portal.

How-To

  1. Confirm whether your property requires a connection permit under the municipal code and obtain any site-specific requirements. [1]
  2. Contact City Public Works or Community Development to request the correct application and fee schedule. [2]
  3. Hire a licensed contractor where required and prepare plans or documentation the city requests for inspection and approval.
  4. Pay applicable connection and inspection fees as directed by the department and obtain written permit approval before starting work.
  5. Schedule inspections, correct any deficiencies cited by inspectors, and retain records of permits, inspections, and payments.
Keep copies of all permits, payment receipts, and inspection reports.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to connect a private property to the city sewer?
Most connections require a permit; confirm with Public Works or Community Development as requirements depend on the work scope and property type.[2]
Where can I find the municipal rules for sewer connections?
The City of San Bernardino municipal code contains sewer and utility provisions; review the official code for legal requirements and enforcement language.[1]
What happens if I connect without a permit?
Unauthorized connections may result in correction orders, fines, stop-work orders, or civil action; specific penalty amounts are not specified on the cited municipal code page.[1]

Key Takeaways

  • Always check the municipal code and contact City departments before starting sewer work.[1]
  • Public Works/Community Development are the primary points of contact for permits and enforcement.[2]

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] San Bernardino Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances
  2. [2] City of San Bernardino - Public Works

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