Brush Clearance: Fontana vs Ontario
How do brush clearance rules compare between Fontana, CA and Ontario, CA?
Ontario has fewer restrictions than Fontana.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana foothill parcels must maintain 100 feet of defensible space under PRC 4291. Citywide weed abatement is enforced annually each spring with cost-recovery liens on noncompliant parcels.
View full Fontana rules →Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario requires owners to keep lots free of dry weeds, brush, and rubbish under the municipal nuisance code and CA H and S 14875. Uncleared parcels are abated by city contractor at owner cost.
View full Ontario rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Foothill defensible space | 100 feet required under PRC 4291 in VHFHSZ | - |
| Zone 0 ember zone | First 5 feet must be ember-resistant per AB 3074 | - |
| Annual inspection | Weed abatement begins late April each year | - |
| Noncompliance cost | City contractor abates; lien placed on property tax bill | - |
| Typical abatement charge | 500 dollars and up plus administrative fees | - |
| State authority | - | CA H and S 14875-14922 |
| Weed height trigger | - | Typically over 4 to 6 inches |
| Abatement fees | - | Billed to owner plus admin cost |
| Enforcement | - | Code Enforcement 909-395-2025 |
| Fire zone | - | Ontario not in state VHFHSZ |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Does my Fontana home need 100 feet of defensible space?
Only if the parcel is in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, generally north Fontana near the foothills. Check the CAL FIRE FHSZ Viewer for your exact address.
When does the Fontana weed abatement program start?
Inspections typically begin in late April and continue through summer; notices are mailed to parcels that fail the initial inspection.
What happens if I do not clear my lot after a weed notice?
The city hires a contractor to abate the hazard and records the cost as a lien on your property tax bill, plus administrative fees.
Ontario FAQ
Does Ontario require defensible space like foothill cities?
Ontario is on the valley floor and not in a state VHFHSZ, so the 100-foot defensible space rule does not apply, but weed abatement and rubbish removal are still required.
What if my vacant lot is overgrown?
Code Enforcement will mail a notice to abate. If you do not clear it, the city hires a contractor and bills you for the work plus administrative fees.
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