Wildfire Zones: Fontana vs Ontario
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Fontana, CA and Ontario, CA?
Ontario has fewer restrictions than Fontana.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Northern Fontana foothills are mapped as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone by CAL FIRE. Parcels there need 100 feet defensible space and Chapter 7A building materials for new construction.
View full Fontana rules →Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario sits on the valley floor and is not mapped in a CAL FIRE Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. Chapter 7A ignition-resistant construction and PRC 4291 defensible space do not apply citywide.
View full Ontario rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| High hazard area | Northern Fontana foothills mapped as VHFHSZ by CAL FIRE | - |
| Defensible space | 100 feet required in VHFHSZ under PRC 4291 | - |
| New construction code | CBC Chapter 7A ignition-resistant materials required | - |
| AB 38 disclosure | Pre-2010 home sellers must provide DSIR in FHSZ | - |
| Annual inspection | SBCoFD conducts PRC 4291 inspections each summer | - |
| CAL FIRE status | - | Not in VHFHSZ |
| Chapter 7A | - | Not required citywide |
| PRC 4291 | - | Defensible space rule not triggered |
| Still required | - | Weed abatement and Fire Code |
| Map check | - | CAL FIRE FHSZ viewer |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
How do I find out if my Fontana address is in a high fire zone?
Use the CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer online - enter your address to see your zone classification.
Do all Fontana homes need Chapter 7A materials?
No. Chapter 7A applies only to new construction or substantial remodels within a Fire Hazard Severity Zone, primarily the foothill neighborhoods.
Will my home insurance be affected by the fire zone rating?
Yes. VHFHSZ designation often raises premiums and can lead to nonrenewal; completing defensible space inspections helps maintain coverage.
Ontario FAQ
Is my Ontario home in a wildfire zone?
Almost certainly no. Ontario is on the valley floor with no designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, but always verify on the CAL FIRE viewer for your specific parcel.
Do I need Chapter 7A ignition-resistant siding in Ontario?
Not based on wildfire zoning, since Ontario has no VHFHSZ. Standard California Building Code materials are allowed.
Compare other topics
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