Wildfire Zones: Ontario vs San Bernardino
How do wildfire zones rules compare between Ontario, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Ontario has fewer restrictions than San Bernardino.
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 →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
The northern San Bernardino foothills are mapped by CAL FIRE as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. VHFHSZ parcels must meet PRC 4291 defensible space and Chapter 7A wildfire construction rules.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ontario | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Legal framework | - | CA PRC 4202 and Gov Code 51178 FHSZ mapping |
| Primary zone | - | VHFHSZ covers northern foothills and Waterman Canyon areas |
| Construction rules | - | CBC Chapter 7A ignition-resistant materials required |
| Seller disclosure | - | Civil Code 1103 VHFHSZ disclosure mandatory at sale |
| Insurance impact | - | VHFHSZ mapping drives carrier non-renewals and FAIR Plan use |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
San Bernardino FAQ
How do I know if my San Bernardino property is in a VHFHSZ?
Use the OSFM Fire Hazard Severity Zone viewer or contact City of San Bernardino Community Development at (909) 384-5122 for a parcel-specific map.
What construction rules apply in a VHFHSZ?
New builds and substantial remodels must meet CBC Chapter 7A, including Class A roofs, ember-resistant vents, and ignition-resistant siding and eaves.
Must I disclose VHFHSZ status when selling my home?
Yes. California Civil Code 1103 requires a natural hazards disclosure showing VHFHSZ status and buyer responsibility for defensible space.
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