Lot Coverage Limits: Fontana vs Rancho Cucamonga
How do lot coverage limits rules compare between Fontana, CA and Rancho Cucamonga, CA?
Fontana and Rancho Cucamonga have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana FMC Title 17 caps the share of a lot that buildings may occupy. R-1 zones typically allow 40-50 percent coverage. Accessory structures count; state ADU law guarantees an 800 sq ft ADU.
View full Fontana rules →Rancho Cucamonga, CA
San Bernardino County
Rancho Cucamonga limits lot coverage by all structures to 40 percent in most residential zones. Impervious surface coverage is separately regulated under MS4 stormwater permit requirements.
View full Rancho Cucamonga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Rancho Cucamonga |
|---|---|---|
| Governing Code | FMC Title 17 | - |
| R-1 Typical | 40-50% coverage | - |
| Multi-Family | 50-60% coverage | - |
| ADU Minimum | 800 sq ft guaranteed | - |
| Open Patios | Often excluded | - |
| Low-density cap | - | 40 percent |
| Very Low cap | - | 25-30 percent |
| Medium/High cap | - | Up to 50 percent |
| Impervious rule | - | MS4 permit |
| Contact | - | (909) 477-2750 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
What counts toward lot coverage in Fontana?
Enclosed buildings including the primary home, garages, and sheds generally count. Open patios, pools, and driveways are typically excluded from coverage calculations.
Can an ADU push my lot over coverage limits?
Under California Gov Code 65852.2, Fontana must allow an ADU of at least 800 square feet even if standard lot coverage rules would otherwise block it.
Rancho Cucamonga FAQ
Does a patio cover count toward lot coverage?
Yes, any roofed structure counts; open-lattice patios may count partially depending on design and code interpretation.
How does an ADU affect lot coverage?
ADUs count toward coverage but receive favorable treatment under state law that can override strict local caps.
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