Permit Requirements: Fontana vs Ontario
How do permit requirements rules compare between Fontana, CA and Ontario, CA?
Fontana and Ontario have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana requires a building permit for masonry or solid fences over 42 inches and open fencing over 48 inches. Permits are issued through Building and Safety, with Planning review when zoning or setback questions arise.
View full Fontana rules →Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario requires a building permit for masonry walls and any fence over 7 feet under the California Building Code. Retaining walls over 4 feet also require permits. Standard 6-foot wood or vinyl fences typically do not.
View full Ontario rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Solid wall over 42 in | - |
| Open Fence | Over 48 in requires permit | - |
| Portal | Build Fontana online | - |
| Inspections | Footing, rough, final | - |
| Contact | Building and Safety (909) 350-6600 | - |
| No Permit | - | Wood or vinyl up to 7 feet |
| Permit Required | - | Masonry and walls over 7 feet |
| Retaining Wall | - | Permit over 4 feet tall |
| Right-of-Way | - | Encroachment permit required |
| HOA | - | Separate from city permit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Do I need a permit to replace my existing fence?
A like-for-like wood fence replacement often does not need a permit. A new block wall or any structural change does.
What if the City discovers an unpermitted wall?
Expect a stop-work order and double permit fees. The City can require removal if the wall does not meet code.
Ontario FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot wood fence in Ontario?
Usually not for the fence itself if it is not combined with a retaining wall or masonry. You still must meet Development Code setback and height rules.
What about a block wall between neighbors?
Yes, masonry block walls require a building permit for footings and reinforcement regardless of height.
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