Material Restrictions: El Monte vs Long Beach
How do material restrictions rules compare between El Monte, CA and Long Beach, CA?
El Monte and Long Beach have similar restriction levels.
El Monte, CA
Los Angeles County
El Monte allows decorative wrought iron fencing up to 5 ft in front yards if at least 50% open with decorative block pilasters (Sec. 17.60.120). Solid fences in front yards limited to 4 ft. Commercial/industrial abutting residential requires 6 ft masonry wall.
View full El Monte rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Long Beach regulates fence materials under LBMC Title 21 Ch. 21.43. Barbed wire and razor wire are prohibited in residential zones. Chain link fences require Planning Bureau approval in certain districts.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Monte | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard | 4 ft solid, 5 ft if 50% wrought iron | - |
| Masonry Required | Commercial abutting residential | - |
| Rear/Side | 6 ft max, standard materials | - |
| Code | Sec. 17.60.120 | LBMC Ch. 21.43 |
| Barbed Wire | - | Prohibited in residential zones |
| Chain Link | - | Planning approval may be required |
| Materials Review | - | Planning Bureau approval |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Monte FAQ
What materials can I use for a tall front fence?
The portion above 42 inches must be wrought iron, chain link, or other see-through material approved by Planning.
Is barbed wire allowed on residential fences?
No. Barbed, razor, and similar wire is prohibited in residential zones. It's only allowed in commercial/industrial areas, 25+ feet from roads.
Long Beach FAQ
Can I put barbed wire on my fence in Long Beach?
No. Barbed wire, razor wire, and similar materials are prohibited on fences in all zones under LBMC 21.43.030. Decorative wrought iron is an exception.
What fence materials are allowed in Long Beach?
Wood, chain link, wrought iron, concrete, masonry, and brick are all permitted. Wood/chain link/wrought iron fences up to 6'6" and masonry walls up to 4' don't require building permits, though Planning approval is required for all fences.
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