Height Limits: Burbank vs Downey
How do height limits rules compare between Burbank, CA and Downey, CA?
Burbank and Downey have similar restriction levels.
Burbank, CA
Los Angeles County
In R-1 zones, front yard fences must use open design (≥50% open) for any portion over 2 feet. Side and rear yard fences may be 6 feet. Street-facing side yard up to 6 feet (up to 8 feet behind rear of dwelling). No razor, barbed, or electric wire permitted. BMC Title 10, Article 6.
View full Burbank rules →Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
Downey Municipal Code Article IX (Land Use) regulates fence and wall heights. Fences under 42 inches do not require a building permit. Interior side and rear fences may be up to 7 feet. Front yard and corner visibility restrictions apply.
View full Downey rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burbank | Downey |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard | Open design required above 2 feet | - |
| Side/Rear Yard | 6 feet max | - |
| Behind Dwelling (Side) | Up to 8 feet | - |
| Prohibited Wire | Razor, barbed, electric | - |
| Code | BMC Title 10, Article 6 | - |
| Code Section | - | Art. IX, Ch. 3 |
| No Permit Needed | - | 42 inches or less |
| Side/Rear Max | - | 7 feet |
| Front Yard Max | - | 42 inches |
| Commercial Screen | - | 7 feet minimum |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burbank FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Burbank?
In R-1 zones, front yard fences must use open design (≥50% open) for any portion over 2 feet. Side and rear yard fences may be 6 feet. Street-facing side yard up to 6 feet (up to 8 feet behind rear of dwelling). No razor, barbed, or electric wire permitted. BMC Title 10, Article 6.
What is the maximum fence height for front yards in Burbank?
Front Yard: Open design required above 2 feet. Side/Rear Yard: 6 feet max. Behind Dwelling (Side): Up to 8 feet. Prohibited Wire: Razor, barbed, electric.
Downey FAQ
How tall can a fence be in Downey?
Interior side and rear yard fences may be up to 7 feet. Front yard fences are limited to 42 inches. Fences 42 inches or less do not require a building permit.
Do I need a permit for a fence in Downey?
Fences 42 inches (3.5 feet) or less do not require a building permit. Taller fences require permits from the Building & Safety Division.
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