Permit Requirements: San Mateo vs South San Francisco
How do permit requirements rules compare between San Mateo, CA and South San Francisco, CA?
San Mateo and South San Francisco have similar restriction levels.
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 →South San Francisco, CA
San Mateo County
Standard residential fences within height limits in South San Francisco generally do not require a building permit. Fences over 6 feet, masonry fences, or fences requiring footings may need a permit. Contact Building Division.
View full South San Francisco rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Mateo | South San Francisco |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | Building Division (650) 829-6670 |
| Under 6 Ft | - | Generally no permit needed |
| Over 6 Ft | - | Building permit likely required |
| Masonry/Retaining Walls | - | Permit required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
South San Francisco FAQ
Do I need a permit to build a fence in South San Francisco?
Standard residential fences within height limits in South San Francisco generally do not require a building permit. Fences over 6 feet, masonry fences, or fences requiring footings may need a permit. Contact Building Division.
How much does a fence permit cost in South San Francisco?
Under 6 Ft: Generally no permit needed. Over 6 Ft: Building permit likely required. Masonry/Retaining Walls: Permit required. Contact: Building Division (650) 829-6670.
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