Vacant Lot Maintenance: Chino vs Ontario
How do vacant lot maintenance rules compare between Chino, CA and Ontario, CA?
Chino has fewer restrictions than Ontario.
Chino, CA
San Bernardino County
Vacant-lot owners in unincorporated San Bernardino County must control weeds, debris, and fire hazards. Fire District requires annual weed abatement in high-fire-severity zones.
View full Chino rules →Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario requires owners of vacant lots to clear weeds, trash, and fire hazards annually under OMC Chapter 30 and Fire Code Chapter 49 to reduce wildfire and blight risks.
View full Ontario rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chino | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Defensible Space | 100 ft (PRC 4291) | - |
| High-Fire Zone | Most mountain areas | - |
| Annual Notice | Spring mailing | - |
| Fire Abatement | (909) 387-5974 | - |
| Code | - | OMC Ch 30; CFC Chapter 49 |
| Weed height limit | - | 6 inches |
| Notice period | - | 30 days to abate |
| Nonpayment | - | Lien via tax roll |
| Contact | - | Ontario Fire (909) 395-2029 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chino FAQ
Do I need to maintain my vacant lot in unincorporated San Bernardino County?
Yes. Owners must keep lots free of weeds, debris, and fire hazards. In high-fire-severity zones (most mountain and WUI areas), annual weed abatement and 100-foot defensible space are required.
What is defensible space?
Under California Public Resources Code 4291, property owners must maintain 100 feet of reduced-vegetation defensible space around structures. The first 30 feet must be lean, clean, and green.
Ontario FAQ
When does Ontario do weed abatement?
Ontario Fire conducts annual inspections in spring, with notices typically mailed in March and April requiring clearing by May or June.
What happens if I do not clear my vacant lot?
The City hires a contractor to clear the lot and the cost, plus administrative fees, is placed as a lien on your property tax bill.
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