Permit Requirements: Fontana vs San Bernardino
How do permit requirements rules compare between Fontana, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Fontana and San Bernardino 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 →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino requires a building permit for fences and walls over six feet in height and for all retaining walls over four feet measured from the bottom of the footing.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Permit Threshold | - | Over 6 feet (fence) or 4 feet (retaining) |
| Code | - | CBC and SBMC Title 15 |
| Contractor Rule | - | CSLB license for jobs over $500 |
| Department | - | Building and Safety |
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.
San Bernardino FAQ
Do I need a permit for a six-foot wood fence?
Generally no. A permit is required once the fence exceeds six feet; below that, Development Code rules still apply.
What about a short retaining wall?
Retaining walls four feet and under (measured from the bottom of the footing) are usually permit-exempt; anything taller needs a Building and Safety permit.
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