How High Can Residential Fences Be?

• Fences six feet or less in height can be placed on your property line without any minimum setback requirements and do not require a building permit. (Note 1)
• There are special regulations for fences erected on corner lots and near driveways. (Note 2)
• Fences over six feet high are permitted on your interior property line. However a conditional use permit
  and a building permit are required. (Note 1)
• Fences over six feet high are prohibited in your front and side street yard without a variance and a building permit. (Note 1)
• Fences over six feet high can be setback 3 feet from the interior property line with a building permit. (Note 1)

Notes:
1. See section 305-83.2 of the Sacramento County Zoning Code.
2. See section 12.12.010 & 12.12.020 of the Sacramento County Code.

What Types of Residential Fences are Prohibited?

• Barbed Wire
• Electric
• Any material extending the top of the fence above six feet. This includes decorative items such as lattice, unless it has been approved with a conditional use permit or a variance.
  (See Section 301-64 of the Zoning Code)

How are Fence Heights Measured?

Fence height is measured from the highest elevation at the property line or at the finished grade of the rear or side yard set back, which ever is higher. If the fence exceeds eight feet above the lower elevation and is adjacent to a single-family residential zone, a use permit from the zoning administrator is required. Contact the planning department for information about applying for use permits or variances.
(See Section 301-63 of the Zoning Code)

Do Fences Establish Property Lines?

No. Fences do not indicate legal property lines. Fences are frequently erected without regards to legal property lines. To determine the legal boundaries of your property, it is recommended that a surveyor be hired. Code Enforcement cannot resolve property line disputes.