Fontana vs San Bernardino
How do property blight rules compare between Fontana, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Fontana has fewer restrictions than San Bernardino.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana prohibits blighted conditions including accumulated trash, overgrown vegetation, inoperable vehicles, graffiti, and unmaintained structures. Code enforcement issues citations and may abate nuisances.
View full Fontana rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino Municipal Code 8.30 defines blight to include junk, junk vehicles, overgrown weeds, graffiti, and failing structures. Code Enforcement cites owners and can lien properties for unpaid abatement costs.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | Municipal Code Chapter 18 | - |
| Typical cure period | 10 to 30 days | - |
| Abatement lien | Allowed if owner fails | City may recover costs as a property lien |
| First fine | From 100 dollars | - |
| Legal basis | - | Municipal Code Chapter 8.30 and Civil Code 3479 |
| Common blight items | - | Junk, weeds, graffiti, junk vehicles, peeling paint |
| First citation | - | Around 100 dollars, escalating to 500 dollars |
| Appeal window | - | 20 days from citation |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
How do I report blight?
Contact Fontana Code Enforcement at (909) 350-7600 or use the city online reporting form. Anonymous complaints are accepted.
Can the city enter my property?
Yes, for exterior observations. Interior inspections usually require consent or an inspection warrant.
San Bernardino FAQ
How do I report a blighted property in San Bernardino?
Use the San Bernardino Connect app, call Code Enforcement at (909) 384-5122, or submit an online Service Request. Include photos and a description of what is visible from the right-of-way.
My neighbor has weeds over two feet tall, is that enforceable?
Yes. Municipal Code Chapter 8.30 sets a general limit around 6 inches for weeds and requires abatement of dead or overgrown vegetation that creates a fire or nuisance hazard.
What if I miss the abatement deadline?
The city can issue citations or proceed with summary abatement and bill you for the work. Unpaid costs can be added to the property tax roll as a special assessment.
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