Weed Ordinances: Chino vs Fontana
How do weed ordinances rules compare between Chino, CA and Fontana, CA?
Chino has fewer restrictions than Fontana.
Chino, CA
San Bernardino County
Chino abates noxious and fire-prone weeds under Title 8 (Health and Safety) using the state weed-nuisance framework in Cal. Health & Safety Code section 14875 et seq. Vacant lots, unmaintained parcels, and pasture edges that accumulate dry grass, brush, or weeds with downy seeds receive notices to clear. Defensible-space rules in PRC section 4291 (100 feet of clearance) apply only in State Responsibility Areas or designated WUI portions adjacent to Chino Hills State Park; most of Chino is a Local Responsibility Area governed by city code.
View full Chino rules →Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana treats overgrown weeds and rubbish as a nuisance. Owners who fail to clear within 30 days of a Notice to Abate face city-contracted removal with costs recorded as a tax lien.
View full Fontana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chino | Fontana |
|---|---|---|
| Local code title | Chino Municipal Code Title 8 (Health and Safety) | - |
| State authority | Cal. Health & Safety Code sections 14875-14922 | - |
| Notice period | Typically 10-30 days plus hearing right | - |
| WUI defensible space | PRC section 4291 (100 feet) where applicable | - |
| Cost recovery | Lien on property tax roll | Special assessment lien on property tax bill |
| Program start | - | Late April each year, continuing through summer |
| Compliance deadline | - | Typically 30 days after Notice to Abate |
| Contractor work | - | Discing, mowing, or removal on noncompliant parcels |
| Vacant lots | - | Inspected more aggressively than occupied homes |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chino FAQ
What counts as a weed under Chino's ordinance?
Anything meeting the HSC 14875 definition: dry grass and brush creating fire hazard, plants with downy seeds, poison oak, and noxious weeds. Cultivated agricultural crops and pasture are not 'weeds' for nuisance purposes.
Do I need to clear 100 feet around my home in Chino?
Only if your parcel sits in a designated Wildland-Urban Interface area or State Responsibility Area; most of Chino is a Local Responsibility Area. Parcels adjacent to Chino Hills State Park may be subject to PRC 4291.
Fontana FAQ
When is Fontana weed abatement season?
Inspections begin in late April each year and continue throughout the summer dry season as part of the Annual Weed Abatement Program.
Can I appeal a Notice to Abate?
Yes. The notice includes instructions for requesting a hearing with Code Enforcement before the compliance deadline.
What is the lien on my tax bill for weed abatement?
It is the contractor charge plus city administrative fees added to your property tax bill after the city cleared your lot under Government Code 25845.
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