Height Limits: Camarillo vs Thousand Oaks
How do height limits rules compare between Camarillo, CA and Thousand Oaks, CA?
Camarillo and Thousand Oaks have similar restriction levels.
Camarillo, CA
Ventura County
Camarillo's zoning code (CMC Title 19) establishes fence height limits of 6 feet in rear and side yards and 3 feet in front yards for residential zones. Higher fences may be allowed with a variance or conditional use permit. Sight triangle requirements at intersections and driveways limit fence heights for visibility.
View full Camarillo rules →Thousand Oaks, CA
Ventura County
Maximum 6 feet along side or rear lot lines, minimum 10 feet from front lot line. Front yard fences limited to 3 feet in height. Up to 9 feet allowed along rear line with Community Development Director approval for noise attenuation. TOMC Sec. 9-4.2509.
View full Thousand Oaks rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Camarillo | Thousand Oaks |
|---|---|---|
| Rear/Side Yards | 6 feet maximum | - |
| Front Yards | 3 feet maximum | - |
| Sight Triangles | 3 feet max for visibility | - |
| Variance Option | Through Planning Commission | - |
| HOA Rules | Often specify style and material | - |
| Side/Rear | - | 6 feet max (10+ ft from front lot line) |
| Front Yard | - | 3 feet max |
| Exception | - | Up to 9 ft rear with Director approval |
| Code | - | TOMC Sec. 9-4.2509 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Camarillo FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Camarillo?
Under CMC Title 19, rear and side yard fences may be up to 6 feet. Front yard fences are limited to 3 feet. Corner lots have additional restrictions on the street-side. HOA CC&Rs may set different limits, so check both city code and HOA rules.
Can I build a taller privacy fence in my front yard?
Front yard fences over 3 feet require a variance from the Planning Commission through a public hearing process. Approval depends on demonstrating unique circumstances. Open fences (wrought iron, picket) may be allowed slightly taller than solid fences.
Does my HOA control fence appearance?
Yes. Most Camarillo HOAs have architectural review requirements for fences, specifying approved heights, materials, colors, and styles. You typically need HOA approval before building any fence, even if it complies with city code.
Thousand Oaks FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Thousand Oaks?
Front yard: 42 inches (3.5 feet) in most residential zones. Side and rear yard: up to 6 feet. Fences over 6 feet require a building permit and likely a variance. Contact Community Development at (805) 449-2100.
Can I have a taller front yard fence?
You would need a variance from the Planning Commission, which requires a public hearing. Open-style fences (wrought iron, split rail) may have slightly different allowances. Check with Community Development.
Do fences on retaining walls have special rules?
Yes. Combined fence-and-wall height is measured from the lower grade, so a 4-foot retaining wall with a fence can only have a 2-foot fence to stay within the 6-foot total limit without a variance.
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