Height Limits: Downey vs Santa Monica
How do height limits rules compare between Downey, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Downey and Santa Monica 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 →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 | Downey | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Art. IX, Ch. 3 | SMMC §9.21.050 |
| No Permit Needed | 42 inches or less | - |
| Side/Rear Max | 7 feet | - |
| Front Yard Max | 42 inches | 42 inches (3.5 feet) |
| Commercial Screen | 7 feet minimum | - |
| 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.
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.
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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