Fence Regulations in Delano, CA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Delano or are thinking about moving there, fence regulations are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Delano has 4 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of fence regulations, and some of them might surprise you.

Neighbor Fence Rules

Boundary fences between Delano property owners are governed by California Civil Code §841 (Good Neighbor Fence Act), which presumes neighbors share equally in the reasonable cost of construction and maintenance of a division fence.

Key details: State Law: Cal. Civil Code §841. Notice Required: 30 days written. Default Cost: 50/50.

Fence cost disputes are civil matters between neighbors and litigated in small claims; the City does not mediate.

Permit Requirements

Delano follows the California Building Code threshold for fence permits: fences 7 feet tall or shorter are generally exempt from building permits, while fences over 7 feet require a building permit issued by the Delano Building Department.

Key details: Permit Trigger: Fence > 7 ft. Code: Delano DC §20.10.90. Issuer: Delano Building Department.

Construction without a required permit is a zoning code violation; stop-work and 'work-without-permit' fees apply.

Height Limits

Delano Development Code §20.10.90.1 limits residential front-yard and street-side-yard fences to 40 inches tall. Interior side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet, measured from adjacent grade.

Key details: Code: Delano DC §20.10.90.1. Front/Street-Side: 40 inches max. Interior Side/Rear: 6 ft (8 ft with raised grade + landscape).

Administrative citation through code enforcement; overheight fences may be ordered removed or reduced.

Approved Materials

Delano Development Code §20.10.90.1.c prohibits barbed wire on any front, side, or rear property line in a residential district, and no sharp wire or sharp points may project above the top of any fence or wall.

Key details: Residential Districts: Barbed wire prohibited. Industrial/Commercial: 3 strands ≤1 ft above 6-ft fence. Setback from Front: 25 ft (commercial/industrial).

Administrative citation and abatement; conditions of approval typically require removal before final inspection.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Delano actively enforces its approved materials requirements.

The Bottom Line

Delano's fence regulations rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Delano is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Delano can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.