San Bernardino, CA Property Maintenance: Snow & Sidewalk Clearing (2026)

California Streets and Highways Code section 5610 places the duty to maintain the sidewalk abutting private property on the adjoining owner, and San Bernardino codifies this in Municipal Code Chapter 12.92 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. Owners must keep the sidewalk clear of leaves and organic debris that can become slippery, overhanging branches below 8 feet over sidewalks and 14 feet over streets per Municipal Code 12.16, 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.