Height Limits: Fontana vs San Bernardino
How do height limits rules compare between Fontana, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
Fontana and San Bernardino 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 →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino Development Code 19.20.030 limits residential fences to four feet in front yards and six feet in side and rear yards. Taller fences need a fence height modification permit.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fontana | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Side/Rear Max | 6 ft without variance | - |
| Front Yard | 36 to 42 inches typical | 4 feet max |
| Solid Permit | Over 42 in | - |
| Open Permit | Over 48 in | - |
| Pool Barrier | 60 in min (Title 24) | - |
| Side and Rear | - | 6 feet max |
| Residential Modification | - | Up to 8 feet with permit |
| Code | - | Development Code 19.20.030 |
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.
San Bernardino FAQ
Can I build an eight-foot fence in my backyard?
Only with a fence height modification permit through Planning; the by-right limit in residential side and rear yards is six feet.
What about the fence along the corner of the lot?
Corner lots have a sight-visibility triangle that limits fences and landscaping near intersections; expect lower heights there.
Compare other topics
See how Fontana and San Bernardino 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