Height Limits: Pasadena vs Topanga
How do height limits rules compare between Pasadena, CA and Topanga, CA?
Pasadena and Topanga have similar restriction levels.
Pasadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Pasadena limits fence height to 42 inches in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards under the Zoning Code. Retaining walls combined with fences have aggregate height limits.
View full Pasadena rules →Topanga, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Title 22 zoning code limits fences in unincorporated areas to 42 inches in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards. Fences under 6 feet generally do not require a building permit but may need Regional Planning approval.
View full Topanga rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Pasadena | Topanga |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard | 42 inches (3.5 feet) maximum | 42 inches max |
| Side/Rear Yard | 6 feet maximum | 6 feet max |
| Corner Lots | Sight triangle required | - |
| Variance | Board of Zoning Appeals | - |
| Permit Required | - | Over 6 feet |
| Under 6 Feet | - | No building permit |
| Review By | - | Regional Planning |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Pasadena FAQ
How tall can a fence be in Pasadena?
Front yard fences: 42 inches maximum. Side and rear yard fences: 6 feet maximum. Corner lots have visibility requirements.
Can I build a taller fence?
You need a variance from the Board of Zoning Appeals for fences exceeding the maximum height.
Topanga FAQ
How tall can a fence be in unincorporated LA County?
Front yard fences are limited to 42 inches. Side and rear yard fences can be up to 6 feet. Fences over 6 feet need a building permit from Public Works.
Do I need a permit for a fence in unincorporated LA County?
A building permit is not required for fences under 6 feet, but you may need approval from the Department of Regional Planning depending on the fence location relative to setback lines.
Compare other topics
See how Pasadena and Topanga compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool