Height Limits: Bonsall vs San Diego
How do height limits rules compare between Bonsall, CA and San Diego, CA?
Bonsall and San Diego have similar restriction levels.
Bonsall, CA
San Diego County
In unincorporated San Diego County, open fences (wire, wrought iron, pipe, rails) may be up to 72 inches (6 ft). Fences in visibility areas (intersections, driveways) cannot exceed 3 feet. Solid fences in front yards limited to 42 inches. Rear and side yard fences up to 6 feet.
View full Bonsall rules →San Diego, CA
San Diego County
SDMC Chapter 14, Article 2, Division 3 limits open fences to 6 feet in required yards (front/side), increasing to 9 feet at the setback line. Solid fences in front yards limited to 3 feet. Rear yard fences up to 6 feet generally permitted. Height measured from the lower of adjacent finished grades.
View full San Diego rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bonsall | San Diego |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard (Solid) | 42 inches maximum | 3 feet max |
| Side/Rear Yard | 6 feet maximum | - |
| Open Fence | 72 inches (wire, iron, pipe) | - |
| Visibility Area | 3 feet maximum | - |
| Wildfire Zone | Non-combustible within 5 ft of structure | - |
| Front Yard (Open) | - | 6 feet at property line |
| Rear/Side Yard | - | 6 feet |
| At Setback Line | - | Up to 9 feet (open) |
| Code | - | SDMC Ch. 14, Art. 2, Div. 3 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bonsall FAQ
How tall can my fence be in unincorporated San Diego County?
Side and rear yard fences can be up to 6 feet. Solid front yard fences are limited to 42 inches. Open fences (wire, iron, pipe) can be up to 72 inches. Visibility areas near intersections are limited to 3 feet.
Do I need fire-resistant fencing?
In wildfire zones, any fence within 5 feet of a building must be non-combustible or approved fire-retardant material per the County's fire code.
Can I build a taller fence with a permit?
Fences exceeding the standard height limits may require a variance from the County. Contact Planning & Development Services to discuss your specific situation.
San Diego FAQ
How tall can my fence be in San Diego?
Front yard: 3 feet solid, 6 feet open. Rear and side yards: 6 feet. Open fences can increase to 9 feet at the building setback line under SDMC Ch. 14, Art. 2, Div. 3.
What is an 'open' fence in San Diego code?
An open fence is one that is at least 25% open (not solid), such as wrought iron, chain link, or picket fences with spacing. Open fences get higher height allowances in front yards.
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