Fontana, CA Fire Regulations: Wildfire Zones (2026)

CAL FIRE has mapped Fire Hazard Severity Zones across California under Public Resources Code 4201-4204 (State Responsibility Area) and Government Code 51175-51189 (Local Responsibility Area). In Fontana, the northern foothill neighborhoods above Duncan Canyon Road and the upper Hunters Ridge and North Fontana communities sit within or directly adjacent to Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, while most of the central and southern valley floor carries a moderate or low rating. Parcels in VHFHSZ must maintain 100 feet of defensible space around every structure under PRC 4291 and GC 51182, with Zone 0 (0-5 feet) ember-resistant per AB 3074, Zone 1 (5-30 feet) lean and green, and Zone 2 (30-100 feet) reduced-fuel. New construction and substantial remodels in these zones must meet California Building Code Chapter 7A requirements: ignition-resistant exterior materials, ember-resistant vents, dual-pane tempered windows, Class A roof assemblies, and noncombustible decks within 10 feet of structures. Under AB 38, sellers of homes in high or very high fire zones built before 2010 must provide a Defensible Space Inspection Report and disclose retrofit requirements as part of the real estate transaction. Fontana Fire Prevention (SBCoFD) conducts PRC 4291 inspections each year and issues notices of violation with deadlines for compliance. Insurance carriers also rely on FHSZ maps, so homes in these zones often face higher premiums or nonrenewal without documented mitigation.