Height Limits: Fontana vs Ontario
How do height limits rules compare between Fontana, CA and Ontario, CA?
Fontana and Ontario have similar restriction levels.
Fontana, CA
San Bernardino County
Fontana caps side and rear yard fences at 6 feet and front yard fences at roughly 36 to 42 inches. Building permits are required for solid walls over 42 inches and for open fencing over 48 inches. Taller decorative or security fences need Planning approval.
View full Fontana rules →Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Ontario limits residential fence heights under the Development Code. Typical maximums are 6 feet rear/side, 3 feet front, and 42 inches in sight-distance triangles at corners. Taller fences need a variance.
View full Ontario rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| Side/Rear Max | 6 ft without variance | - |
| Front Yard | 36 to 42 inches typical | 3 feet solid or 4 feet with openwork |
| Solid Permit | Over 42 in | - |
| Open Permit | Over 48 in | - |
| Pool Barrier | 60 in min (Title 24) | - |
| Rear and Side | - | 6 feet maximum |
| Corner Sight | - | 42 inches in triangle |
| Buffer Walls | - | Up to 8 feet industrial edge |
| Deviation | - | Variance or adjustment required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fontana FAQ
Can I build a 7-foot wall for privacy?
Only with Planning approval. Anything over 6 feet in most residential zones needs a variance or minor development review.
Do I need a permit for a 4-foot wood fence?
For a 4-foot wood fence generally no, but if it is a masonry wall the threshold drops to 42 inches solid. Check Planning to confirm.
Ontario FAQ
Can I build a 6-foot front fence in Ontario?
No. Front-yard fences are generally limited to 3 feet solid or 4 feet with at least half open decorative metal. A 6-foot front fence requires a variance.
Does a corner lot have extra rules?
Yes. Fences within the 42-inch sight-distance triangle at corners and driveways cannot block driver visibility.
Compare other topics
See how Fontana and Ontario compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool