Tree Trimming: Chino vs Fontana
How do tree trimming rules compare between Chino, CA and Fontana, CA?
Chino and Fontana have similar restriction levels.
Chino, CA
San Bernardino County
Street trees and parkway trees in Chino are regulated under Title 11 (Streets, Sidewalks and Public Places) and Title 12 (Public Property). Property owners are responsible for trimming private trees that overhang the public right-of-way to maintain mandated clearance (typically 8 feet over sidewalks and 14 feet over roadways). Removal or major pruning of designated street trees requires a city permit and follows ISA pruning standards. State law (Public Utilities Code section 12808) and CPUC General Order 95 govern clearance around overhead utility lines.
View full Chino rules →Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Private trees in Fontana are the owners responsibility, but parkway trees belong to the city and need a Public Works permit. Maintain 14 feet over streets and 8 feet over sidewalks.
View full Fontana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chino | Fontana |
|---|---|---|
| Local code titles | Chino Municipal Code Title 11 and Title 12 | - |
| Sidewalk clearance | 8 feet vertical (typical Cal. standard) | - |
| Roadway clearance | 14 feet vertical (typical Cal. standard) | - |
| Utility line clearance | CPUC General Order 95 (SCE clears around energized lines) | - |
| Street tree removal | Permit required; replacement may be required | - |
| Street tree ownership | - | Parkway trees are city-owned; residents cannot prune them |
| Street clearance | - | 14 feet over streets, 8 feet over sidewalks |
| Private tree rules | - | Owner can trim or remove without a city permit |
| Neighbor encroachment | - | May trim to property line under Civil Code 833 |
| Contractor requirement | - | C-61/D-49 or C-27 license required for paid tree work |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chino FAQ
Can I trim the parkway tree in front of my house in Chino?
Parkway trees that are city-owned cannot be removed or substantially pruned without a permit from the city's Public Works/Community Services Department. Homeowners may perform light pruning of overhanging private branches but should not top or cut into the structural framework of a city tree.
What about trees near power lines?
Do not trim near energized lines. Call Southern California Edison; line-clearance crews handle clearance around overhead conductors under CPUC GO 95.
Fontana FAQ
Can I trim the tree in front of my Fontana house?
Not if it is in the parkway strip - those are city trees. Contact Fontana Public Works to request maintenance or a trimming permit.
How high do I have to keep my trees over the sidewalk?
At least 8 feet of vertical clearance over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets, with no obstruction of signs, signals, or sightlines.
My neighbor tree hangs over my yard - can I cut it?
Yes up to your property line under California Civil Code 833, but do not kill or disfigure the tree, or you could owe damages.
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