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

If you live in Redwood City or are thinking about moving there, fence regulations are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Redwood City has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of fence regulations, and some of them might surprise you.

Height Limits

Max fence height in Redwood City: 3 ft (solid) or 5 ft (open-top) in the front-yard 15-ft setback, 7 ft on side and rear yards, and 5 ft+ for pool barriers. Permits aren't required under 7 ft. Corner-lot visibility triangle applies.

Key details: Front Setback (15 ft): 3 ft solid; up to 5 ft with open topper. Side/Rear Yards: Up to 7 ft. Pool Fences: Greater than 5 ft required. Code: RWC Zoning Code R Districts.

Fences exceeding the height limits or built into the corner visibility triangle can draw code-enforcement action, and the city can require modification or removal of a non-compliant fence.

Permit Requirements

Fences in Redwood City that comply with height limits typically do not require a building permit. However, fences over 7 feet, retaining walls, or fences with footings may require a permit from the Building Division.

Key details: Standard Fences: No permit needed within height limits. Over 7 Feet: Building permit required. Masonry/Wall Fences: May need permit. Contact: Building Division (650) 780-7350.

Unpermitted construction: stop-work order. May require removal or modification. Retroactive permit with penalty fees.

Neighbor Fence Rules

Fence cost-sharing between neighbors in Redwood City is governed by California Civil Code §841 (Good Neighbor Fence Act). Disputes are civil matters; the city does not mediate fence disagreements.

Key details: Cost Sharing: Equal (CA Civil Code §841). Prior Notice: 30 days written notice required. City Mediation: Not available. Code: CA Civil Code §841.

Civil remedy: neighbor can sue for share of costs. Spite fence: injunction + damages. Small claims court for disputes under $12,500.

The Bottom Line

Redwood City'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 Redwood City is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Redwood City's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.