Height Limits: Concord vs Richmond
How do height limits rules compare between Concord, CA and Richmond, CA?
Concord and Richmond have similar restriction levels.
Concord, CA
Contra Costa County
Concord fence height limits are typically 3.5 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards on residential lots. Fences exceeding these limits require a building permit and may require a variance. Corner lots have additional sight-distance restrictions to maintain traffic safety.
View full Concord rules →Richmond, CA
Contra Costa County
Richmond fence height limits are 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards without a permit. Fences over 6 feet require a building permit. Corner lots have additional vision clearance requirements restricting fence height within 15 feet of intersections to 3 feet for traffic safety.
View full Richmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Concord | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard Max | 3.5 ft (42 in) | - |
| Side/Rear Max | 6 ft (7 ft with permit) | - |
| Corner Sight Triangle | No obstruction over 3 ft | - |
| Pool Fence | 5 ft minimum per H&S Code §115923 | - |
| Code Section | CMC Title 18 (Development Code) | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Concord FAQ
How tall can my backyard fence be?
Up to 6 feet without a permit, or up to 7 feet with a building permit in most residential zones.
Can I have a 6-foot fence in front of my house?
No. Front yard fences within the setback area are limited to 3.5 feet (42 inches) to preserve sight lines and neighborhood character.
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot fence?
Generally no for a fence at or under 6 feet on side and rear property lines, but permits are required for taller fences, pool fences, and fences on corner lots near sight triangles.
Richmond FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot fence?
Not for most 6-foot fences in Richmond side/rear yards. Permits are required for fences over 6 feet and for any fence in the front yard exceeding 4 feet.
How do I measure fence height on a sloped lot?
Typically measured from the lowest adjacent finished grade. Retaining walls integrated with fences count toward total height if immediately adjacent.
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