Height Limits: Compton vs Santa Monica
How do height limits rules compare between Compton, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Compton and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Compton, CA
Los Angeles County
Compton Municipal Code Chapter 30, Sections 30-44.1 through 30-44.5 regulate fences and walls. Fences under 6 feet are not considered structures. Standards vary by zone with specific material requirements and prohibited materials.
View full Compton rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Santa Monica limits front yard fences to 42 inches (3.5 feet) and side/rear yard fences to 8 feet under SMMC §9.21.050. Ornamental attachments may add up to 12 inches.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Compton | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | CMC §30-44.1 through §30-44.5 | SMMC §9.21.050 |
| Non-Structure Limit | Under 6 feet | - |
| Height Adjustment | Up to 1.5 ft to match neighbors | - |
| Front Yard | White picket fences allowed | - |
| Prohibited | Sheet metal, chicken wire, razor wire, plywood | - |
| Front Yard Max | - | 42 inches (3.5 feet) |
| Side/Rear Yard Max | - | 8 feet |
| Ornamental Extra | - | Up to 12 inches above max |
| Pergola Allowed | - | Up to 8 feet tall |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Compton FAQ
How tall can a fence be in Compton?
Fences under 6 feet are not considered structures. Height adjustments of up to 1.5 feet may be approved to match neighboring fence heights within 150 feet.
What fence materials are banned in Compton?
Prohibited materials include corrugated metal, sheet metal, chicken wire, fiberglass, plywood, used materials (tires, railroad ties), electrified fencing, razor wire, and fabric/plastic sheeting.
Santa Monica FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica limits front yard fences to 42 inches (3.5 feet) and side/rear yard fences to 8 feet under SMMC §9.21.050. Ornamental attachments may add up to 12 inches.
What is the maximum fence height for front yards in Santa Monica?
Code Section: SMMC §9.21.050. Front Yard Max: 42 inches (3.5 feet). Side/Rear Yard Max: 8 feet. Ornamental Extra: Up to 12 inches above max.
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