Permit Requirements: Martinez vs Richmond
How do permit requirements rules compare between Martinez, CA and Richmond, CA?
Martinez and Richmond have similar restriction levels.
Martinez, CA
Contra Costa County
Standard residential fences in Martinez up to 6 feet in height generally do not require a building permit. Fences over 6 feet, retaining walls over 3 feet, pool fences, and any fence in the downtown historic district or in design review areas require permits. Permit fees typically range from $150 to $400 depending on complexity, with additional fees for engineered or historic review.
View full Martinez rules →Richmond, CA
Contra Costa County
Building permits are not required for fences up to 7 feet tall in unincorporated Contra Costa County. Taller fences, any concrete or masonry wall, and retaining walls over 3 feet require a permit from the Building Inspection Division.
View full Richmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Martinez | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Permit threshold | - | Fences over 7 feet |
| Code Section | - | Ord. Code 72-6.202 |
| Retaining wall exemption | - | Under 3 feet (footing to top) |
| Permit Center | - | 30 Muir Rd., Martinez, (925) 655-2700 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Martinez FAQ
Richmond FAQ
Do I need a permit to replace an existing 6-foot wood fence?
No. Replacement of a wood fence at the same 6-foot height is within the Ordinance 72-6.202 exemption (fences not over 7 feet high). However, if the fence serves as a swimming pool barrier, it must be replaced promptly because pool barrier requirements remain in force.
What about a fence taller than 7 feet?
Anything over 7 feet requires a building permit from the Contra Costa County Building Inspection Division. Apply at the Application and Permit Center at 30 Muir Road, Martinez, or call (925) 655-2700.
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