Fence Regulations in Pomona, CA: What Residents Actually Need to Know
If you live in Pomona or are thinking about moving there, fence regulations are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Pomona has 6 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of fence regulations, and some of them might surprise you.
Material Restrictions
Pomona Zoning and Development Code requires block wall/fencing plans showing materials and heights be approved by the Planning Division. A 6-ft decorative masonry wall is required at industrial-residential boundaries. Double walls must be avoided.
Key details: Plan Approval: Planning Division required. Industrial Boundary: 6-ft decorative masonry wall. Double Walls: Avoided to extent feasible. Code: Pomona Zoning & Development Code.
Non-compliant materials are subject to code enforcement. Plans must be reviewed by the Planning Division before construction.
Permit Requirements
Fence construction in Pomona requires submission of site plans, section drawings, and elevations to the Planning Division for approval. Plans must be consistent with the grading plan.
Key details: Plan Review: Planning Division approval required. Submittals: Site plan, sections, elevations. Grading: Must be consistent with grading plan. Contact: Planning Dept 909-620-2191.
Unpermitted fences are subject to code enforcement action. The Planning Division can be reached at (909) 620-2191 or PlanningCounter@pomonaca.gov.
Height Limits
The Pomona Zoning and Development Code (effective July 2024) regulates fence and wall heights. Front yard fences are generally limited to 42 inches; side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet in residential zones.
Key details: Code: Pomona Zoning & Development Code. Front Yard: 42 inches max. Side/Rear Yard: 6 feet max. Permit Required: Plans must be approved by Planning. Effective: July 31, 2024.
Non-compliant fences are subject to code enforcement action through the Code Compliance Division. Violations may result in notices of violation, administrative citations, and fines.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Pomona follows CA Civil Code Section 841 (Good Neighbor Fence Act) requiring shared cost for boundary fences. Spite fences exceeding 10 ft are a private nuisance under CA Civil Code Section 841.4.
Key details: State Law: CA Civil Code Section 841. Cost Sharing: Equal share for boundary fences. Spite Fences: Over 10 ft = nuisance (CC Section 841.4). Disputes: Civil court resolution.
Civil remedy: neighbor can sue for share of costs. Spite fence: injunction + damages. Small claims court for disputes under $12,500.
Retaining Walls
Retaining walls in Pomona require engineering plans and Planning Division approval. Height and material must be depicted in section drawings. Retaining walls along property boundaries may also require neighbor notification.
Key details: Approval: Planning Division + Building & Safety. Plans Required: Engineering sections and elevations. Code: Pomona Zoning & Development Code. Building Codes: 2022 CA Building Codes apply.
Unpermitted walls: stop-work order, required engineering review, potential demolition. Fines $200 to $1,000.
Pool Barriers
Pool barriers in Pomona must meet CA Building Code Title 24 Chapter 31 requirements: 60-inch minimum height, self-closing/self-latching gates, plus at least one additional safety feature (cover, alarm, or self-closing doors).
Key details: Minimum Height: 60 inches. Gates: Self-closing, self-latching. Additional Safety: Pool cover, alarm, or door alarm required. State Law: CA Building Code Title 24 Ch. 31.
Non-compliant barriers: immediate correction required. Fines $100 to $500. Pool use prohibited until barriers meet code. Liability exposure for accidents.
This is one of the stricter rules in Pomona's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.
The Bottom Line
Pomona'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 Pomona is broadly strict or permissive.
These rules come from Pomona's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.