San Bernardino, CA Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)
Key Facts
- 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
Summary
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.
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
92 and related public works rules. While snow is generally not a concern in the valley floor, higher elevation neighborhoods on the north edge of the city such as Arrowhead Springs and the foothill approaches to the mountains can see occasional snow events, and owners are expected to clear accumulations that create a safety hazard, though no specific shoveling deadline like those in cold climates exists. 16, sand or mud from driveways, retail displays, and trash or debris. Broken or uplifted sidewalk panels are the owner responsibility to repair if Public Works determines them hazardous, though the city may share 50 50 cost participation on a case-by-case basis.
Property owners can be held civilly liable for trip and fall injuries caused by poorly maintained sidewalks under Streets and Highways Code 5610 and common law. Enforcement is through the Public Works Department and Code Enforcement, typically by notice and request to repair, with the city retaining the right to abate and charge the owner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to shovel snow in San Bernardino?
My sidewalk has a cracked panel, who pays to fix it?
Are leaves from my tree on the sidewalk a code violation?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Bernardino
California rules heatmap·Compare San Bernardino 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.