1. On March 18, 2020 the Mayor and City Council ratified Proclamation No. 2020-01 Proclaiming the existence of a local emergency. Please click here for Resolution No. 2020-51.
2. On March 18, 2020 the City Manager enacted a temporary moratorium and evictions due to non-payment of rent by residential and commercial tenants impacted by COVID-19 through Executive Order No. 2020-01. Please click here  for Executive Order 2020-01.
3. On March 19, 2020 Executive Order No. 2020-02 authorizing the staying of the City’s compliance with any deadlines. Please click here for Executive Order No. 2020-02
4. County Orders and updates can be located at sbcounty.gov or to be redirected to the page, click here. 
5. State Orders and updates can be located at covid19.ca.gov or to be redirected to the page, click here. 

On March 20th, the City Manager, acting as the City’s Director of Emergency Services, issued an Executive Order enacting a temporary moratorium on evictions due to non-payment of rent by residential and commercial tenants impacted by the COVID-19. This applies to residential evictions for non-payment of rent by tenants who are unable to pay rent due to circumstances related to the COVID-19 pandemic, such as:

1. Loss of income due to being sick with COVID-19 or caring for a household or family member sick with COVID-19;
2. Loss of income due to layoff, work place closure, or reduced hours due to COVID-19 impacts;
3. Loss of income or child care expenditures due to school closures;
4. High health care costs stemming from COVID-19; and
5. Reasonable expenditures or loss of income stemming from government-ordered emergency measures.

The moratorium also applies to commercial evictions where the tenant informs the landlord (and provides appropriate supporting documentation) that they are unable to pay all or a portion of the rent to a limitation or closure of the tenant’s business related to COVID-19.  Commercial tenants may still need to pay a portion of the rent corresponding to the pro-rated share of remaining income on time.

What does the eviction moratorium mean for City of San Bernardino “renters”?

If a renter is not able to pay the rent due to circumstances related to the COVID-19 pandemic, as described above, the eviction moratorium states that tenants should not be evicted.

You are eligible if you meet the following criteria:

1. You lost income or had increased health care costs because you or a household/family member is sick with COVID-19;
2. You lost income because you were laid off or your job has closed or reduced hours due to COVID-19;
3. You lost income or have increased childcare costs due to school closures; or
4. You have increased expenditures or loss of income stemming from government-ordered emergency measures.

How will the City implement the residential eviction moratorium?

Affirmative Defense - Both the Governor’s and the City Manager’s Emergency Orders provide tenants facing eviction with an affirmative defense if the proposed eviction is for non-payment of rent and the tenant’s inability to pay rent results from circumstances related to the COVID-19 emergency. To take advantage of the defense, tenants or their attorneys may need to provide documentation to the Landlord that they have lost substantial income. Examples of documentation may include, but are not limited to, a letter from the employer citing COVID-19 as a reason for reduced work hours or termination, employer paycheck stubs, bank statements, or school district notifications.

Violation of City Law – The Executive Order may also be enforced as a violation of Section 2.46.120 of the City’s Municipal Code.  If landlords fail to comply with the Order, the City may prosecute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who does the eviction moratorium apply to?

The Emergency Order applies to all residential and commercial rentals in the City of San Bernardino, including single-family dwellings, apartments, duplexes, and condominiums. The moratorium applies to all renters.

Does the moratorium apply to all evictions?

The current moratorium applies to:

• Residential evictions stemming from failure to pay rent when the tenant is unable to pay the rent as a result of loss of income related to the Coronavirus as outlined above.

• Commercial evictions where tenant informs landlord (and provides appropriate supporting documentation) due to a limitation or closure of the tenant’s business related to COVID-19.
  

  The moratorium does not apply to:

• Evictions due to the violation of landlord rules not related to non-payment of rent.
• Other evictions not related to the non-payment of rent.

Do tenants have to pay rent during COVID-19?

Generally, yes.  Tenants are still obligated to pay lawfully charged rent. The Order does not excuse a tenant from the obligation to pay rent for the period the moratorium is in effect.  However, during the emergency period, tenants may not be evicted for failure to pay rent due to the financial impacts related to COVID-19. Tenants will have up to six months following the expiration of the local emergency to repay any back rent due. Landlords and tenants may mutually work out a payment schedule or arrangements for repayment of rent.

 Is there rental assistance available for renters who cannot pay their rent?

At this time, there is no rental assistance available through the City. If rental assistance becomes available, updates will be posted as soon as a program is adopted.  Rental assistance may be available to third party non-profits.  The federal government has adopted several stimulus programs which provide additional resources during this time.  Individuals may be eligible for tax rebates and businesses may be eligible for payroll tax credits and loans under the CARES Act.

How can I get tested? Where do I start?

If you are showing symptoms of COVID-19, please call your healthcare provider for medical advice. All labs require a physician order for the COVID-19 test. If you have symptoms, but unable to get tested you may consider a drive-through test at one of the upcoming events. 

Who should get tested for COVID-19?

Per the CDC's guidelines, if you develop symptoms such as a fever, cough and/or difficulty breathing, and have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or have recently traveled from an area with ongoing spread of COVID-19, stay home and call your healthcare provider. 

Older patients and individuals who have severe underlying medical conditions or those that have suppressed immune systems should contact their healthcare provider early, even if their illness is mild. 

I don't have insurance or a primary healthcare provider, where should I go?

For a link, go to the County's COVID-19 website at sbcovid19.com page and click on Low Cost Clinics and Federally Qualified Health Centers. There you will find more information on clinics in the area. 

What if my doctor can't perform the test? 

If your primary physician can't perform the test, call the San Bernardino County Health Center at (800) 722-4777. Please do not go to the Health Center without prior arrangements. 

How can I get tested at the drive-through events?

San Bernardino County residents who display symptoms of COVID-19 including fever, cough or shortness of breath may be considered for testing at an upcoming drive-through testing event. Residents who have had COVID-19 symptoms over the last two weeks can make an appointment, if criteria is met for testing and an appointment is available. To make an appointment, go to sbcovid19.com. 

When and where are the next drive-through testing locations?

At this time, community drive-through testing events are scheduled at several locations in San Bernardino County. For specific site information and to schedule an appointment, go to sbcovid19.com.

Are the drive-through testing events free?

Yes, these events are free. You do not need insurance to be tested at a drive-through site. It is recommended that you test through your healthcare provider if you have insurance.

The well-being and safety of our community is of utmost importance and we will continue to provide essential and emergency response services such as Public Safety, Public Works and Water Operations.The City Manager's response, including services we will continue to provide can be found here.

• In addition to the City senior and community food distribution, the County of San Bernardino established a page specifically for food resources throughout the county, including school nutrition programs and senior meals. For a list of sites, visit www.sbcovid19.com/food-assistance
• You may also visit www.211sb.org and click on Food for resources. This link will provide you with information on community resources and meals, grocery distribution and Meals on Wheels for seniors. You may also call directly by dialing 211 from your phone. If 211 does not work from you phone, you can dial direct at (888) 435-7565. 
• The County of San Bernardino established a Dashboard illustrating COVID-19 cases, tests, positive results and other information related to the virus. cases and other statistical information. 

• A COVID-19 public information line has been established by the County of San Bernardino. Please call (909) 387-3911 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday to Friday for information only, not for medical questions. 

• The State of California  established a website specifically related to COVID-19. Please click HERE or go to www.covid19.ca.gov for the most current information.
• San Bernardino County Department of Public Health has established a 24/7 Public Hotline for inquiries related to COVID-19. For further information, please call 1-800-782-4264 and press option 6.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has established a COVID-19 testing self-checker at www.CDC.Gov/coronavirus
• To file for unemployment benefits, visit www.edd.ca.gov.

COVID-19 Related Websites (click below)

San Bernardino County Department of Public Health

California Department of Public Health

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The CDC currently recommends the following best practices for everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and any respiratory diseases:

• Wear a mask to reduce the spread of the virus. 
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

Q: What information can the City provide the community about COVID-19?  

A: The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health is the lead authority for all public health emergencies for the County of San Bernardino, including our City. They are working closely with all jurisdictions including the Federal Government, California Department of Public Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to keep the community updated on new information concerning COVID-19 (Coronavirus).  The contact information is provided under Information Related to COVID-19.

Q: What should I do if I have COVID-19 symptoms? 

A: Call your doctor:  If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19 and develop a fever and symptoms, such as cough or difficulty breathing, call your healthcare provider for medical advice. 

Q: Why did the City close libraries, community centers and other non-essential service facilities?

A:    It is important that the City is committed to providing a safe environment for our employees and community by helping to reduce the exposure of COVID-19. 

Q: What is the San Bernardino Unified School District (SBCUSD) doing?

A. The San Bernardino School District has temporarily cancelled classes. However, the district is still providing several services to the community. including breakfast and lunch.

• SBCUSD is providing breakfast and lunch to all students and charter school students age 18 and under at all SBCUSD schools. Please contact the SBCUSD prior to going to the locations. 

For more information, including the time that meals will be served and schools will resume, please visit www.sbcusd.com/readysbcusd

Q: How often will the City provide updates? 

A: The City will continue to utilize the website and social media platforms. The website is updated when new information is added.  Community Updates with the Mayor can be found on the City's page sbcity.org under City Headlines.

Q: How do I report fraud or overpricing? 

A: The County of San Bernardino's District Attorney's Office established a hotline (909) 382-7748, to report fraud and price gauging.

Q: Have there been any changes to Public Transportation?

A: Yes, in order to support public health efforts and continue to provide vital service, Omnitrans has decided to make temporary adjustments to our bus boarding procedures and implement reduced service as follows. Please click HERE for the most current information from Omnitrans.

Q. Will Burrtec continue to pick up my trash?

A: Yes, Burrtec is committed to providing service during this time. Burrtec has established precautionary measures as a safety precaution while in the community.  

Q. Can I access library books and other library services online?

A. Yes, the City's libraries are closed at this time, but you can access Overdrive eBooks, eAudiobooks and other online resources. For more information, visit www.sbpl.org 

Q. Is there any relief for my utility bills during COVID-19?

A. Both Southern California Edison (SCE) and SoCalGas have informed the City that they will temporarily suspend disconnection of service and will only provide essential and emergency services. For SoCal Gas bill payment services and options, click here or call (800) 427-2200. For more information from SCE, go to  sce.com/safety or call (800) 655-4555. In addition, both agencies provide a discount for low income residents. Please visit their websites for more information on eligibility requirements and how to apply.  

Q. I have been hearing so much about COVID-19. How do I know what is true? 

A. Always go to trusted sources of information like coronavirus.gov or other state and local government websites for information. FEMA created a page Coronavirus Rumor Control to help the public distinguish between rumors and facts regarding the response to coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Rumors can easily circulate within communities during a crisis. Do your part to the stop the spread of disinformation by doing 3 easy things; don’t believe the rumors, don’t pass them along and go to trusted sources of information to get the facts about the federal (COVID-19) response. 

Q. Is there any relief programs or assistance for my small business?

A. The State of California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a series of actions to help California's small businesses. The programs are part of the $2 trillion coronavirus relief bill signed into law March 27, 2020. Below is a list of federal and state support. More information, including how to apply, can be found on the U.S. Small Business Administration resource page.  

• Paycheck Protection Loans: The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will guarantee loans with terms of up to 10 years and interest rates of up to 4% to businesses with fewer than 500 employees. Businesses can qualify for loans of up to $10 million, and the loans will be provided by lenders including banks and credit unions. Eligible businesses can get loan deferment for six months to a year, and the loan may be forgiven if the businesses maintains its payroll for eight weeks at employees’ normal salary levels.
• Expanded access to U.S. Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loans: As part of its disaster assistance program, the SBA is providing working capital loans of up to $2 million to small businesses and nonprofits affected by the coronavirus. These loans carry an interest rate of 3.75% for small businesses and 2.75% for nonprofits. Loan repayment terms vary by applicant, up to a maximum of 30 years. The stimulus updated the program so that sole proprietors and businesses with fewer than 500 employees qualify, and applicants don’t need to provide a personal guarantee on loans under $200,000. Payments can also be deferred for up to four years.
• Emergency grant of $10,000 to SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan applicants: Even if your business is denied a loan, you can still access this grant, which can be used to provide employee sick leave, maintain payroll or meet other needs like paying rent.

Q. Can I still adopt an animal while the Animal Shelter is closed to the public? 

A. All public contact with the San Bernardino Animal Shelter will be managed by appointment only. Go to www.PetHarbor.com to select an animal and proceed with an appointment by phone at (909) 384-7272 Monday- Thursday from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm, and Friday until 4:30 pm.  This includes the following services:

• Adoptions
• Return to owners
• Rescue adoptions

Q. Where can I get tested for COVID-19?

A. The process and locations for testing are being updated by the San Bernardino County Health Department as information becomes available. As testing sites are established, the information becomes available on the County website at sbcounty.gov. As testing sites are announced, they are also posted on the City's social media platforms. 

Q. What social media sites is the City using to publish COVID-19 information?

A. The City is using the following social media platforms to publish information related to COVID-19:

• Facebook
• Nextdoor
• Twitter
  
  

Q. When is a face covering required? 

A. Face coverings are no longer required to be worn in public while in the County of San Bernardino. However, face coverings are highly recommended to reduce the spread of COVID-19.  

Q. I was laid off. Where do I go to file for unemployment?

A. You may apply for unemployment ,by visiting edd.ca.gov. This site will provide you with all the information to file a claim online and provide information on what to expect next. 

Q. What is social distancing?

A. Social distancing, also called “physical distancing,” means keeping space between yourself and other people outside of your home. To practice social or physical distancing:

• Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people
• Do not gather in groups
• Stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings.

Q.  Are food banks operating during COVID-19?

A.  The County of San Bernardino has established a website to assist with locating local food assistance resources. For more information, visit www.SBCovid19.com/food-assitance. 

San Bernardino City continues to distribute food and provide meals for seniors. Fore more information go to www.sbcity.gov/parks.

For additional food distribution and other resources, visit www.211sb.org and click on Food. That link will provide you with information on community meals, grocery distribution and Meals on Wheels for seniors. You may also call directly by dialing 211 from your phone. If 211 does not work from you phone, you can dial direct at (888) 435-7565. However, the same resources can be found online. 

Q. Can I open my business?

A. If you need to determine if your work/business in an essential function or is in a phase that it can be open, please visit www.Covid19.ca.gov or www.cisa.gov.  There you will find information if your sector falls under this guidance. For further guidance, please refer to your work/industry association.