Fontana vs San Bernardino
How do snow & sidewalk clearing rules compare between Fontana, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Fontana has fewer restrictions than San Bernardino.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana does not experience accumulating snow, so no snow-removal ordinance applies. Owners must keep sidewalks free of debris, obstructions, and hazards adjacent to their property.
View full Fontana rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino rarely sees snow, so there is no shoveling ordinance. Owners are still responsible under Streets and Highways Code 5610 for keeping the abutting sidewalk safe and clear of debris and tripping hazards.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Snow clearing required | No | - |
| State authority | Streets and Highways Code 5610 | - |
| Tree clearance | 8 feet over walk, 14 feet over street | - |
| Trip hazard threshold | Typically 3/4 inch | - |
| State law | - | Streets and Highways Code 5610 assigns sidewalk duty to owner |
| Snow | - | Rare in the valley; foothill neighborhoods should clear hazards |
| Branch clearance | - | 8 feet over sidewalks, 14 feet over streets |
| Sidewalk repair | - | Generally owner responsibility, possible 50-50 city cost share |
| Liability | - | Owners may be sued for trip and fall injuries |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Do I have to shovel snow in Fontana?
Effectively never. Measurable snow almost never falls at Fontana elevations, and no snow ordinance exists.
Who is liable for a tripping injury on the sidewalk?
Under Streets and Highways Code 5610, the adjacent property owner is generally responsible for maintaining sidewalks and may face liability.
San Bernardino FAQ
Do I have to shovel snow in San Bernardino?
There is no dedicated snow ordinance because snow is rare at valley elevations. If accumulation creates a hazard on your sidewalk, you should clear it to avoid civil liability under Streets and Highways Code 5610.
My sidewalk has a cracked panel, who pays to fix it?
Under Streets and Highways Code 5610 the owner is responsible. San Bernardino sometimes offers a 50-50 cost sharing program when funds are available through Public Works; contact the department at (909) 384-5111.
Are leaves from my tree on the sidewalk a code violation?
Accumulated leaves that make the sidewalk slippery or obstruct pedestrian passage can be cited. Regular sweeping of the parkway and sidewalk abutting your property is the owner responsibility.
Compare other topics
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