Material Restrictions: Altadena vs El Monte
How do material restrictions rules compare between Altadena, CA and El Monte, CA?
Altadena and El Monte have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
New/replacement fences in Altadena front yards may not be composed of barbed wire, concertina wire, razor wire, or broken glass. Chain link over 42 inches must be covered with live plant material.
View full Altadena rules →El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
El Monte allows decorative wrought iron fencing up to 5 ft in front yards if at least 50% open with decorative block pilasters (Sec. 17.60.120). Solid fences in front yards limited to 4 ft. Commercial/industrial abutting residential requires 6 ft masonry wall.
View full El Monte rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | El Monte |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Altadena CSD 22.306.070.A.3.e | - |
| Prohibited | Barbed/razor/concertina wire, broken glass | - |
| Chain Link >42 in | Must be plant-covered | - |
| Front Yard | - | 4 ft solid, 5 ft if 50% wrought iron |
| Masonry Required | - | Commercial abutting residential |
| Rear/Side | - | 6 ft max, standard materials |
| Code | - | Sec. 17.60.120 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Can I have a barbed-wire fence in Altadena?
Not in any required front yard. CSD 22.306.070.A.3.e bans barbed wire, razor wire, concertina, and broken glass in front-yard fences.
El Monte FAQ
What materials can I use for a tall front fence?
The portion above 42 inches must be wrought iron, chain link, or other see-through material approved by Planning.
Is barbed wire allowed on residential fences?
No. Barbed, razor, and similar wire is prohibited in residential zones. It's only allowed in commercial/industrial areas, 25+ feet from roads.
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