Height Limits: Downey vs Pasadena
How do height limits rules compare between Downey, CA and Pasadena, CA?
Downey and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
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 →Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena limits fence height to 42 inches in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards under the Zoning Code. Retaining walls combined with fences have aggregate height limits.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Front Yard | - | 42 inches (3.5 feet) maximum |
| Side/Rear Yard | - | 6 feet maximum |
| Corner Lots | - | Sight triangle required |
| Variance | - | Board of Zoning Appeals |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Pasadena FAQ
How tall can a fence be in Pasadena?
Front yard fences: 42 inches maximum. Side and rear yard fences: 6 feet maximum. Corner lots have visibility requirements.
Can I build a taller fence?
You need a variance from the Board of Zoning Appeals for fences exceeding the maximum height.
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