Height Limits: Petaluma vs Santa Rosa

Do I need a permit for a 6-foot fence?

Most residential 6-foot fences in interior yards do not require a building permit but must meet zoning.

How tall can my backyard fence be in Santa Rosa?

Up to 6 feet by right, or 8 feet (a 6-foot fence with 2 feet of lattice on top) by right when located outside the front or street-side setback. Any fence over 7 feet, however, requires a Building Permit from the Planning & Economic Development Department.

Why is my front-yard fence limited to 36 inches?

Table 3-1 of Santa Rosa City Code Section 20-30.060 caps fences within the required front-yard setback at 36 inches to preserve sight lines and neighborhood character. The 6-foot allowance only applies outside that setback or within interior side/rear yards.

Can I exceed the height limits with a permit?

Yes. Under Subsection D, a Minor Director Conditional Use Permit may authorize fences exceeding the Table 3-1 limits if the review authority finds the fence is reasonably necessary, will not create a safety hazard, is compatible with the neighborhood, is a planned architectural feature, properly oriented, and of sound construction. This option is not available within a required vision triangle.