Developer Fees

In 1986, the California Legislature authorized school districts to levy school impact or developer fees on residential and commercial/industrial development for the purpose of funding the construction or reconstruction of school facilities.  The basis of the school facilities legislation is the relationship between new development, and the impact on school districts to provide adequate school facilities for the student population new development generates.  The authority for the District's assessment of developer fees is set forth in Education Code Section 17620, pursuant to Government Code 65995. 

 

When you apply for a building permit within San Joaquin county, you will receive the School District Fee Form in the Building Inspection Division packet.  The Building Inspection department determines the square footage for the conditioned space.  Garage and porch space are not subject to developer fees.  RUSD does not charge residential developer fees on square footage 500 square feet or less. 

 

Residential Additions: $5.17 per sq. ft.

New Construction: $5.59 per sq. ft.

Commercial/Industrial: $0.84 per sq. ft

 

Residential Developer Fees (Level 1) are applied to additions over 500 sq. ft. or replacement due to natural disasters. This is based on the reported sq. ft. for assessable or livable space. This does not include garages, covered patios, covered walkways or screened/enclosed porches. 

 

New Construction Developer Fees (Level 2) are applied to new residential homes or developments, as well as voluntary demos/replacements unless proof of prior developer fees paid is provided. 

 

Commercial/Industrial Developer Fees (Level 1) are applied to businesses such as office, retail, industrial, warehouse, self-storage, or manufacturing. Ag storage for raw product is exempt.

 

Level 1 fees were approved with Board Resolution 24-01 effective September 30, 2024.

Level 2 fees were approved with Board Resolution 25-04 effective December 16, 2025.