Fence Regulations in Bakersfield, CA (2026)
7 verified fence regulations for Bakersfield, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Height Limits
Bakersfield BMC §17.08.180 limits fences to 6 ft in rear/side yards and 4 ft in required front yards for residential zones (R-1 through R-6, MX-1, MX-2). Higher fences allowed if required for noise attenuation.
Bakersfield Fence Height Limits
Some RestrictionsPermit Requirements
Bakersfield requires building permits for fences over 6 feet tall and for most retaining walls under BMC Title 15 (Building and Construction) and Title 17 (Zoning). Fences 6 feet and under in side and rear yards generally do not require a permit but must still comply with zoning height and location standards. All fences, with or without permits, must meet vision clearance rules at corners and driveways.
Fences: Permits
Some RestrictionsNeighbor Fence Rules
Bakersfield does not have a specific municipal ordinance addressing boundary fence disputes between neighbors. California Civil Code Section 841 (the Good Neighbor Fence Act of 2013) governs shared boundary fences statewide and presumes adjoining landowners share equally in the reasonable costs of construction and maintenance. Disputes over spite fences, blocked views, or cost-sharing are handled through state civil law rather than city code.
Fences: Neighbor Rules
Some RestrictionsCalifornia Civil Code Sec. 841 (Good Neighbor Fence Act - Shared Responsibility for Boundary Fences)
841. (a) Adjoining landowners shall share equally in the responsibility for maintaining the boundaries and monuments between them. (b) (1) Adjoining landowners are presumed to share an equal benefit from any fence dividing their properties and, unless otherwise agreed to by the parties in a written agreement, shall be presumed to be equally responsible for the reasonable costs of construction, ...
Retaining Walls
Bakersfield requires building permits for retaining walls over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, and for any retaining wall supporting a surcharge (such as a driveway, pool, or structure) regardless of height. Engineered plans stamped by a California-licensed civil or structural engineer are required for walls over 4 feet. Walls within property setbacks and near slopes have additional requirements.
Fences: Retaining Walls
Heavy RestrictionsPool Barriers
Bakersfield enforces California Health and Safety Code §115920-115929 (the Swimming Pool Safety Act) requiring all new or remodeled residential swimming pools and spas to have at least two of seven approved drowning-prevention safety features. Pool enclosure fences must be at least 60 inches (5 feet) tall, non-climbable, with self-closing and self-latching gates. Permits and inspections are required through Bakersfield Development Services.
Fences: Pool Barriers
Heavy RestrictionsFence Requirements
Bakersfield regulates fence height, location, and materials under BMC Title 17 (Zoning Ordinance). Residential fences are limited to 3-4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards without a permit. Corner lots must maintain a clear vision triangle. All fences must be set back from public right-of-way and cannot obstruct sight distance at driveways or intersections.
Fences: Fence Requirements
Some RestrictionsMaterial Restrictions
Bakersfield restricts certain fence materials under BMC Title 17 zoning regulations. Barbed wire, razor wire, concertina wire, and electrified fencing are generally prohibited in residential zones but may be allowed in industrial or agricultural zones with permits. Chain link is permitted in most zones but may be restricted in front yards or require slats for screening in some districts. All materials must be maintained in good repair.
Fences: Material Restrictions
Some RestrictionsLooking for Kern County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Bakersfield city rules.
Fence Regulations in Kern County →