Permit Requirements: Fresno vs Reedley
How do permit requirements rules compare between Fresno, CA and Reedley, CA?
Fresno and Reedley have similar restriction levels.
Fresno, CA
Fresno County
Fresno requires a building permit for fences over 7 feet tall or any retaining wall over 4 feet measured from bottom of footing to top. Fences 6 feet and under in side and rear yards, and 3 feet in front yards, are permit-exempt provided they meet FMC §15-2019 zoning setback and materials rules.
View full Fresno rules →Reedley, CA
Fresno County
Building permits required for masonry walls and fences exceeding standard heights. Standard wood or vinyl fences at allowed heights may be exempt. Verify with the Building Division.
View full Reedley rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fresno | Reedley |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Building Code | - | RMC 9-1-1 -- adopts CBC |
| Required Walls | - | RMC 10.34.050 -- per CDD approval |
| Variance | - | RMC 10.110.030 -- application and fee |
| Contact | - | Building Division, 1733 9th St |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fresno FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot fence in Fresno?
Not for a standard wood or vinyl fence in side or rear yards at 6 feet or under. You still must comply with setbacks, sight triangle, and material rules. Retaining walls and pool fences require permits separately.
Can I build a 7-foot fence in Fresno?
A fence over 7 feet needs a building permit. Fences up to 7 feet are permit-exempt. Get drawings stamped and approved through Fresno Development and Resource Management before starting.
Reedley FAQ
Do I need a permit to build a fence in Reedley?
It depends on the type. Standard wood or vinyl fences at allowed heights often do not require a building permit, but masonry walls and retaining walls typically do. Contact the Reedley Building Division at (559) 637-4200 to confirm for your specific project.
What if I want a fence taller than the allowed height?
You would need to apply for a zoning variance under RMC 10.110.030. This requires an application, fee, and approval from the Community Development Department showing justification for the exception.
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