Material Restrictions: Concord vs Martinez
How do material restrictions rules compare between Concord, CA and Martinez, CA?
Concord and Martinez have similar restriction levels.
Concord, CA
Contra Costa County
Concord allows most common fence materials including wood, vinyl, masonry, wrought iron, and chain link. Barbed wire and razor wire are generally prohibited in residential zones. Front yard fence materials face additional design-review considerations in some neighborhoods. HOA CC&Rs often impose stricter material requirements than city code.
View full Concord rules →Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Contra Costa County's Ordinance Code does not impose a general material restriction on residential fences in unincorporated areas. The only material-specific rule is that concrete and masonry walls are classified as walls (not fences) and require a building permit regardless of height.
View full Martinez rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Concord | Martinez |
|---|---|---|
| Common Allowed | Wood, vinyl, masonry, wrought iron, chain link | - |
| Prohibited Residential | Barbed wire, razor wire, electrified | - |
| Commercial Exception | Barbed wire with permit at 6 ft+ | - |
| Maintenance | Dilapidated fences = public nuisance | - |
| HOA Override | CC&Rs often stricter than city code | - |
| Material ban | - | None county-wide |
| Masonry/concrete | - | Permit required (treated as wall) |
| Code Section | - | Ord. Code 72-6.202 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Concord FAQ
Can I install a chain link fence?
Chain link is allowed in most residential zones, though some neighborhood overlays and HOA CC&Rs restrict it, especially in front yards.
Is barbed wire allowed?
Barbed wire is prohibited in residential zones. Commercial and industrial properties can install it with a permit, typically only on top of a 6-foot fence.
Can my HOA require a specific fence material?
Yes. HOA CC&Rs can impose stricter material and color requirements than the city's minimum code and are enforceable through the HOA.
Martinez FAQ
Is barbed wire allowed on a residential fence in unincorporated Contra Costa County?
There is no county-wide ordinance prohibiting barbed wire in unincorporated residential areas, but specific zoning districts and HOA rules may restrict it. Some cities in the county (e.g., Pittsburg) ban it outright in their residential zones; the county itself does not.
Do I need a permit for a stucco or brick wall instead of a wood fence?
Yes. Ordinance 72-6.202 expressly states concrete and masonry walls are not 'fences' and require a building permit, even if they are under 7 feet tall.
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