Summary
Operating as a general contractor in San Bernardino requires both state and local compliance. You must hold a valid California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) license - either Class A for engineering projects or Class B for building construction - which requires 4 years experience, passing exams, and biennial renewal with continuing education. The city requires a separate business license and all construction work needs permits through the Building & Safety Department. Insurance requirements include minimum $1 million general liability and workers compensation for employees. Building permits are required for most construction projects, with fees based on construction value and review timelines of 15-45 days depending on project complexity. Success in San Bernardino's competitive market requires maintaining full compliance, professional insurance coverage, and understanding of local building codes and permit processes.
License Requirements
General contractors in San Bernardino must hold a California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) license - either Class B (General Building Contractor) or Class A (General Engineering Contractor). Requires 4 years of construction experience, passing the Law & Business exam and trade-specific exam. License renewal required every 2 years with 32 hours of continuing education. San Bernardino City requires business license registration through the Business License Division. Contractors must maintain current license status and display license numbers on all advertising and contracts.
Permit Requirements
Building permits required through San Bernardino Building & Safety Department for most construction projects. Applications submitted online via the city portal or in-person at 300 N D Street. Plan review fees range from $200-$5,000+ depending on project scope. Typical review timeline is 15-30 business days for residential, 30-45 days for commercial projects. Inspections required at multiple phases (foundation, framing, electrical, plumbing, final). Permit fees calculated based on construction value - typically $8-15 per $1,000 of construction cost plus plan review fees.
Insurance Requirements
Minimum $1 million general liability insurance required by CSLB. Workers' compensation insurance mandatory for any contractor with employees - coverage through State Compensation Insurance Fund or private carrier. Many projects require additional umbrella coverage of $2-5 million. San Bernardino municipal projects may require performance and payment bonds. Some homeowner associations and commercial clients require $2 million minimum liability coverage. All insurance must list San Bernardino as additional insured when required by contract.
Typical Cost Ranges
Residential remodeling projects: $50,000-$300,000. New home construction: $200,000-$800,000. Commercial tenant improvements: $75,000-$500,000. Small additions and ADUs: $80,000-$250,000. Kitchen and bathroom remodels: $25,000-$150,000. Whole house renovations: $150,000-$600,000. Costs reflect San Bernardino market rates including materials, labor, permits, and contractor markup of 15-25%.
Compliance Checklist
- ✓Obtain California Contractors License (Class A or B) from CSLB
- ✓Register for San Bernardino City business license
- ✓Secure general liability insurance minimum $1 million
- ✓Obtain workers compensation insurance if employing workers
- ✓Apply for building permits through San Bernardino Building & Safety Department
- ✓Schedule required inspections at proper construction phases
- ✓Maintain current license status and complete continuing education
- ✓Display license numbers on all contracts, advertising, and job sites
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