Fence Requirements: Mountain View vs Sunnyvale
How do fence requirements rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Mountain View and Sunnyvale have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Mountain View requires fences to be structurally sound, maintained in good repair, with finished side facing the neighbor or street and compliance with zoning setback and height rules.
View full Mountain View rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale fences must be structurally sound, set back from sight-distance triangles at corners, and for commercial uses must meet screening and design review requirements in the zoning code.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Finished side | Outward facing | - |
| Barbed wire residential | Prohibited | - |
| Electric fencing | Generally prohibited | - |
| Public right of way | No encroachment | - |
| Dilapidated fence | Nuisance abatement | - |
| Structural standard | - | Sound, no lean over 10 degrees |
| Corner triangle | - | 3 ft max in 25 ft radius |
| Commercial screening | - | Often required |
| Chain link street side | - | Generally not allowed |
| HOA rules | - | Can be stricter |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Which side of the fence faces my neighbor?
The finished smooth side should face your neighbor; posts and rails face inward on your side.
Can I add barbed wire on top of my business fence?
Only with specific commercial security approval; residential barbed wire is prohibited in Mountain View.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can Code Enforcement force me to repair a leaning fence?
Yes, if the fence is leaning over 10 degrees, has missing sections, or poses a safety hazard, Code Enforcement can issue a notice to repair or replace.
Do I need design review for a residential fence?
No, most residential fences are over-the-counter. Design review applies to commercial and industrial projects and to heritage-tree-adjacent work.
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