Height Limits: Newport Beach vs Santa Ana
How do height limits rules compare between Newport Beach, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Newport Beach and Santa Ana have similar restriction levels.
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 →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Santa Ana allows fences up to 8 feet in side and rear yards and 3-4 feet in front yards under SAMC Sec. 41-610. Front yard fences over 18 inches require a Planning permit and must allow visibility through the upper portion.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Newport Beach | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard | 3 feet maximum | 3–4 ft max |
| Side/Rear Yard | 6 feet maximum | 8 ft max |
| Corner Lots | Sight triangle restrictions apply | - |
| Coastal Zone | CDP may be required | - |
| Community Development | (949) 644-3200 | - |
| Front Permit | - | Required over 18 in. |
| Code Section | - | Sec. 41-610 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Santa Ana?
Santa Ana allows fences up to 8 feet in side and rear yards and 3-4 feet in front yards under SAMC Sec. 41-610. Front yard fences over 18 inches require a Planning permit and must allow visibility through the upper portion.
What is the maximum fence height for front yards in Santa Ana?
Front Yard: 3–4 ft max. Side/Rear Yard: 8 ft max. Front Permit: Required over 18 in.. Code Section: Sec. 41-610.
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