Height Limits: Downey vs Torrance
How do height limits rules compare between Downey, CA and Torrance, CA?
Downey and Torrance 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 →Torrance, CA
Los Angeles County
Torrance limits front yard hedges and shrubbery to 4 feet under TMC §92.13.1. Side and rear fences and walls are generally limited to 6 feet. Building permits may be required for taller structures.
View full Torrance rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Downey | Torrance |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Art. IX, Ch. 3 | TMC §92.13.1 |
| No Permit Needed | 42 inches or less | - |
| Side/Rear Max | 7 feet | - |
| Front Yard Max | 42 inches | - |
| Commercial Screen | 7 feet minimum | - |
| Hedge/Shrub Max | - | 4 feet |
| Side/Rear Fence | - | 6 feet (general) |
| Right-of-Way | - | Encroachment permit needed |
| Appeals | - | Planning Commission → Council |
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.
Torrance FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Torrance?
Torrance limits front yard hedges and shrubbery to 4 feet under TMC §92.13.1. Side and rear fences and walls are generally limited to 6 feet. Building permits may be required for taller structures.
What is the maximum fence height for front yards in Torrance?
Code Section: TMC §92.13.1. Hedge/Shrub Max: 4 feet. Side/Rear Fence: 6 feet (general). Right-of-Way: Encroachment permit needed.
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