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San Bernardino County, CA Public Health Rules: Bed-Bug Rules (2026)

Heavy Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified May 2026

Key Facts

Disclosure timing
Before lease signing
State law
Civil Code 1954.603
Treatment
Licensed operator required
Tenant retaliation
Prohibited

Summary

California Civil Code 1954.603 requires landlords to disclose bed bug information and prohibits renting units with known infestations; San Bernardino County enforces habitability complaints.

These county ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County. Incorporated cities within the county may have their own rules that take precedence over county-level regulations.

1954.603. On and after July 1, 2017, prior to creating a new tenancy for a dwelling unit, a landlord shall provide a written notice to the prospective tenant as provided in this section. This notice shall be provided to all other tenants by January 1, 2018. The notice shall be in at least 10-point type and shall include, but is not limited to, the following:

(a) General information about bed bug identification, behavior and biology, the importance of cooperation for prevention and treatment, and the importance of and for prompt written reporting of suspected infestations to the landlord. The information shall be in substantially the following form:

Source: California Civil Code 1954.603View official code

Full Breakdown

California AB 551, codified at Civil Code 1954.600 to 1954.605, requires landlords to give tenants a written bed bug information sheet before lease signing and within seven days of any new infestation report. Landlords cannot rent a unit with a known active infestation. In unincorporated San Bernardino County and contract cities, Code Enforcement and Public Health respond to habitability complaints when professional pest control is delayed. Owners must hire a licensed pest control operator, not rely on tenant self-treatment with foggers.

Violations & Fines

Renting infested units, retaliating against reporting tenants, or failing to provide disclosures can lead to civil penalties and habitability claims in small claims court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I withhold rent for bed bugs?
Possibly, after written notice and reasonable time for repair. Consult Inland Counties Legal Services first. Document every notice and treatment attempt with dated photos and emails.
Who pays for treatment?
The landlord is generally responsible because bed bugs are a habitability issue. Tenants must cooperate by laundering linens and preparing units per the pest control operator instructions.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in San Bernardino County

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsRodent ControlLight RestrictionsRestaurant Grade CardsSome RestrictionsFood Handler CertificationSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: MicrochippingSome Restrictions

All San Bernardino County rules

California rules heatmap·Compare San Bernardino County to another location·View the California public health rules overview

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