New lobbyist registration requirements take effect Sept. 17

"San Bernardino County Update", yellow arrowhead and "SBCounty.gov

A person types on a laptop. The screen displays a “Register” banner with various registration fields. — *Paid advocates who meet the county’s definition of a lobbyist must complete the new registration process beginning Sept. 17.*

Individuals, firms and organizations paid to lobby San Bernardino County officials will be required to register with the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors beginning Sept. 17.

On Aug. 18, the Board of Supervisors adopted Ordinance No. 4517, establishing registration and reporting requirements for county lobbyists as directed by the County Charter approved by voters in November 2020 (Measure J). The ordinance applies to any individual, firm or organization that receives compensation of at least $1,000 in a calendar month, excluding reimbursement for reasonable expenses.

Under the new requirements, county lobbyists must:

Register with the Clerk of the Board within 10 days of becoming a county lobbyist.
Provide their name and business contact information.
Identify each person or organization that has retained them to lobby the county.
Update their registration within 10 days of any change to the information provided.
Renew their registration by Jan. 15 each year, beginning in 2027.
Request to terminate lobbyist registration when they are no longer acting as a county lobbyist.

There is no fee to register as a county lobbyist. Completed lobbyist registration information is public record and will be viewable on the county’s website.

Individuals, firms and organizations retained by a county-governed entity to advocate on its behalf to state or federal bodies are not required to register when that advocacy is within the scope of their work.

To request access to the online registration system, email reception@cob.sbcounty.gov and provide the lobbying name (firm or individual), email address and telephone number.

For more information, visit the Lobbyist Registration page on the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors’ website at cob.sbcounty.gov/lobbyist.

Additional County Update News – September 10, 2026