Structure Height Limits: Fontana vs Ontario
How do structure height limits rules compare between Fontana, CA and Ontario, CA?
Fontana and Ontario have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana height limits are set in FMC Title 17. R-1 primary structures cap at about 35 ft or 2.5 stories. ADUs must reach at least 16-18 ft under Gov Code 65852.2.
View full Fontana rules →Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario caps single-family homes at 35 feet or 2 stories under OMC Chapter 9, and land near ONT International Airport triggers FAA Part 77 height review for anything over 200 feet or within the runway-protection zone.
View full Ontario rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | FMC Title 17 Development Code | - |
| R-1 Max | 35 ft / 2.5 stories | - |
| Multi-Family | 35-45 ft typical | - |
| ADU Minimum | 16-18 ft (state) | - |
| Industrial | Up to 50-70 ft | - |
| Residential cap | - | 35 ft / 2 stories |
| Accessory structure | - | 15 ft max |
| ADU height | - | 16-25 ft (GC 65852.2) |
| Airport review | - | FAA Form 7460-1 over 200 ft |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
How tall can my Fontana home be?
R-1 single-family primary structures are typically capped at 35 feet or two-and-a-half stories under FMC Title 17. Check the specific zone for your lot.
How tall can an ADU be in Fontana?
California law guarantees at least 16 feet for a detached ADU, and 18 feet if the lot is within one-half mile of a major transit stop.
Ontario FAQ
Do I need FAA approval for a two-story house?
Only if the site is within an FAA Part 77 surface around ONT; most standard two-story homes are fine, but the Planning Department screens every permit.
Can I add a third story?
Not in standard R-1; you would need a zone change or Planned Development approval from the Planning Commission.
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