Approved Materials: Redwood City vs San Mateo
How do approved materials rules compare between Redwood City, CA and San Mateo, CA?
Redwood City and San Mateo have similar restriction levels.
Redwood City, CA
San Mateo County
Wood and cyclone (chain-link) fences are the standard, permit-exempt materials in unincorporated San Mateo County when built within height limits. Masonry fences require a building permit, and certain districts restrict materials near street frontages.
View full Redwood City rules →San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
Wood and cyclone (chain-link) fences are the standard, permit-exempt materials in unincorporated San Mateo County when built within height limits. Masonry fences require a building permit, and certain districts restrict materials near street frontages.
View full San Mateo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Redwood City | San Mateo |
|---|---|---|
| Permit-exempt materials | Wood and cyclone (chain-link) | Wood and cyclone (chain-link) |
| Masonry fences | Allowed but require building permit | Allowed but require building permit |
| Height limit for exempt fence | 4 ft front / 6 ft side-rear | 4 ft front / 6 ft side-rear |
| Street-facing district limits | Some ban masonry, chain link, corrugated metal | Some ban masonry, chain link, corrugated metal |
| Exception conditions | Design/materials/color may be conditioned | Design/materials/color may be conditioned |
| Code basis | Zoning Reg. Ch. 8.332 | Zoning Reg. Ch. 8.332 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Redwood City FAQ
What fence materials don't need a building permit?
Wooden and cyclone (chain-link) fences that meet the zoning height limits do not require a building permit in unincorporated San Mateo County. Masonry fences require a building permit even at the same height.
Can I build a masonry or block wall fence?
Yes, masonry fences are generally allowed, but they require a building permit. Some specific districts prohibit masonry within 15 feet of street-facing property lines, so confirm your zoning district and any Design Review overlay.
San Mateo FAQ
What fence materials don't need a building permit?
Wooden and cyclone (chain-link) fences that meet the zoning height limits do not require a building permit in unincorporated San Mateo County. Masonry fences require a building permit even at the same height.
Can I build a masonry or block wall fence?
Yes, masonry fences are generally allowed, but they require a building permit. Some specific districts prohibit masonry within 15 feet of street-facing property lines, so confirm your zoning district and any Design Review overlay.
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