Snow & Sidewalk Clearing: Chino vs San Bernardino
How do snow & sidewalk clearing rules compare between Chino, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Chino has fewer restrictions than San Bernardino.
Chino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino County has no countywide snow-clearing ordinance, but mountain communities (Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, Crestline) customarily expect owners to keep walkways passable.
View full Chino rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino rarely sees snow, so there is no shoveling ordinance. Owners are still responsible under Streets and Highways Code 5610 for keeping the abutting sidewalk safe and clear of debris and tripping hazards.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chino | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Countywide Rule | None required | - |
| Mountain Reality | HOAs often require | - |
| County Plows | Public roads only | - |
| Road Info | (909) 387-7800 | - |
| State law | - | Streets and Highways Code 5610 assigns sidewalk duty to owner |
| Snow | - | Rare in the valley; foothill neighborhoods should clear hazards |
| Branch clearance | - | 8 feet over sidewalks, 14 feet over streets |
| Sidewalk repair | - | Generally owner responsibility, possible 50-50 city cost share |
| Liability | - | Owners may be sued for trip and fall injuries |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chino FAQ
Do I have to shovel my sidewalk after snow in Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead?
San Bernardino County does not require sidewalk snow clearing by ordinance, but most HOAs in mountain communities like Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, and Running Springs require it. Check your CC&Rs.
Does the county plow my driveway?
No. San Bernardino County Public Works only plows county-maintained public roads. Private driveways and private streets are the owner's or HOA's responsibility.
San Bernardino FAQ
Do I have to shovel snow in San Bernardino?
There is no dedicated snow ordinance because snow is rare at valley elevations. If accumulation creates a hazard on your sidewalk, you should clear it to avoid civil liability under Streets and Highways Code 5610.
My sidewalk has a cracked panel, who pays to fix it?
Under Streets and Highways Code 5610 the owner is responsible. San Bernardino sometimes offers a 50-50 cost sharing program when funds are available through Public Works; contact the department at (909) 384-5111.
Are leaves from my tree on the sidewalk a code violation?
Accumulated leaves that make the sidewalk slippery or obstruct pedestrian passage can be cited. Regular sweeping of the parkway and sidewalk abutting your property is the owner responsibility.
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