Permit Requirements: Redwood City vs San Mateo
How do permit requirements 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
Fences in Redwood City that comply with height limits typically do not require a building permit. However, fences over 7 feet, retaining walls, or fences with footings may require a permit from the Building Division.
View full Redwood City rules →San Mateo, CA
San Mateo County
Fences up to 7 feet in San Mateo generally do not require a building permit if they comply with zoning regulations. Fences over 7 feet require a building permit and a SPAR Fence Exception planning application.
View full San Mateo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Redwood City | San Mateo |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Fences | No permit needed within height limits | - |
| Over 7 Feet | Building permit required | - |
| Masonry/Wall Fences | May need permit | - |
| Contact | Building Division (650) 780-7350 | Building (650) 522-7172 |
| Under 7 Ft | - | No building permit needed (if compliant) |
| Over 7 Ft | - | Building permit + SPAR exception required |
| Masonry | - | May require permit regardless of height |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Redwood City FAQ
Do I need a permit to build a fence in Redwood City?
Fences in Redwood City that comply with height limits typically do not require a building permit. However, fences over 7 feet, retaining walls, or fences with footings may require a permit from the Building Division.
How much does a fence permit cost in Redwood City?
Standard Fences: No permit needed within height limits. Over 7 Feet: Building permit required. Masonry/Wall Fences: May need permit. Contact: Building Division (650) 780-7350.
San Mateo FAQ
Do I need a permit to build a fence in San Mateo?
Fences up to 7 feet in San Mateo generally do not require a building permit if they comply with zoning regulations. Fences over 7 feet require a building permit and a SPAR Fence Exception planning application.
How much does a fence permit cost in San Mateo?
Under 7 Ft: No building permit needed (if compliant). Over 7 Ft: Building permit + SPAR exception required. Masonry: May require permit regardless of height. Contact: Building (650) 522-7172.
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