Height Limits: Irvine vs Newport Beach
How do height limits rules compare between Irvine, CA and Newport Beach, CA?
Irvine and Newport Beach have similar restriction levels.
Irvine, CA
Orange County
Irvine limits residential fences to a maximum of 7 feet in side and rear yards and 2.5 feet in front setback areas under the Irvine Zoning Ordinance. Fences over 7 feet in required setback areas need Administrative Relief approval.
View full Irvine rules →Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach Zoning Code regulates fence heights based on yard location. Front yard fences are generally limited to 3 feet, while side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet. Height exceptions apply in some zoning districts and for certain materials.
View full Newport Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Irvine | Newport Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Side/Rear Yards | 7 ft maximum | - |
| Front Setback | 2.5 ft maximum | - |
| Over 7 ft | Administrative Relief required | - |
| Masonry Over 6 ft | Engineering calculations needed | - |
| Contact | Planning (949) 724-6308 | - |
| Front Yard | - | 3 feet maximum |
| Side/Rear Yard | - | 6 feet maximum |
| Corner Lots | - | Sight triangle restrictions apply |
| Coastal Zone | - | CDP may be required |
| Community Development | - | (949) 644-3200 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Irvine FAQ
How tall can a fence be in Irvine?
Side and rear yard fences may be up to 7 feet. Front setback area fences are limited to 2.5 feet above grade.
Can I build a fence higher than 7 feet?
Fences over 7 feet within required setback areas need Administrative Relief approval from the Planning Division. Contact (949) 724-6308.
Newport Beach FAQ
How tall can my front yard fence be in Newport Beach?
Front yard fences in Newport Beach are generally limited to 3 feet in height. This applies to the area between the front property line and the required front setback. Check with Community Development at (949) 644-3200 for your specific zoning district.
Can I build a 6-foot fence in my backyard in Newport Beach?
Yes, side yard and rear yard fences may generally be up to 6 feet in height under the Newport Beach Zoning Code. Combined fence-and-retaining-wall height may have additional limitations depending on grade changes.
Do fences in Newport Beach need a Coastal Development Permit?
Fence modifications in the Coastal Zone that are visible from public areas may trigger Coastal Development Permit requirements. Contact Community Development at (949) 644-3200 to determine if your property is in the Coastal Zone.
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