Fontana, CA Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)
Key Facts
- 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
Summary
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.
5610. The owners of lots or portions of lots fronting on any portion of a public street or place when that street or place is improved or if and when the area between the property line of the adjacent property and the street line is maintained as a park or parking strip, shall maintain any sidewalk in such condition that the sidewalk will not endanger persons or property and maintain it in a condition which will not interfere with the public convenience in the use of those works or areas save and except as to those conditions created or maintained in, upon, along, or in connection with such sidewalk by any person other than the owner, under and by virtue of any permit or right granted to him by law or by the city authorities in charge thereof, and such persons shall be under a like duty in relation thereto. (Added by Stats. 1941, Ch. 79.)
Full Breakdown
Because Fontana sits in the Inland Empire at a low elevation, measurable snowfall is extremely rare and the city has not adopted a snow or ice sidewalk clearing ordinance similar to those in colder regions. However, Municipal Code property maintenance provisions and California Streets and Highways Code 5610 make the adjacent property owner responsible for maintaining the sidewalk in safe condition. Owners must remove tree debris, fallen fronds, mud, grease, broken branches, garden trimmings, and other obstructions that can create a tripping or slipping hazard. Trees and shrubs must be trimmed so that they do not overhang the sidewalk below 8 feet or the street below 14 feet. Graffiti, vandalism, and damaged sidewalks should be reported; trip hazards greater than 3/4 inch typically require repair. Failure to maintain sidewalks can result in liability for injuries and code enforcement action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to shovel snow in Fontana?
Who is liable for a tripping injury on the sidewalk?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fontana
California rules heatmap·Compare Fontana to another location·View the California property maintenance overview
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Snow & Sidewalk Clearing in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Bernardino County handle snow & sidewalk clearing.