Height Limits: Santa Paula vs Ventura
How do height limits rules compare between Santa Paula, CA and Ventura, CA?
Santa Paula and Ventura have similar restriction levels.
Santa Paula, CA
Ventura County
Santa Paula Zoning Ordinance limits fences to 3.5 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards in residential zones. Corner lots have additional sight-triangle restrictions. Fences on retaining walls are measured from the top of the wall.
View full Santa Paula rules →Ventura, CA
Ventura County
Ventura limits front yard fences to 3 feet in the required front setback area (first 20 feet from the lot line) unless less. A maximum 6-foot fence or wall is allowed anywhere else on the lot except in the clear sight triangle. Taller fences may be allowed if 50% open (like chain link).
View full Ventura rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Santa Paula | Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard | 3.5 feet maximum | - |
| Side/Rear Yard | 6 feet maximum | 6 feet max |
| Corner Lot Sight Triangle | 3 feet maximum | - |
| Measurement | From finished grade, higher side | - |
| Permits | Community Development (805) 933-4214 | - |
| Front Setback | - | 3 feet max in first 20 feet from lot line |
| 50% Open Exception | - | Taller fences may be allowed if open |
| Sight Triangle | - | Must maintain clear vision at corners |
| Contact | - | Planning (805) 677-3941 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Santa Paula FAQ
How tall can a fence be in Santa Paula?
3.5 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards. Corner lots have 3-foot limits in sight-triangle areas for traffic visibility.
Can I build a taller fence with a variance?
Yes, you can apply for a variance through the Planning Commission. This requires a public hearing and demonstrating hardship. Contact Community Development at (805) 933-4214.
How is fence height measured on a slope?
Fence height is measured from the finished grade on the higher side. For fences on retaining walls, the combined wall-plus-fence height is used.
Ventura FAQ
How tall can my front yard fence be in Ventura?
Fences in the front setback area (typically the first 20 feet from the front lot line) are limited to 3 feet in height.
How tall can my backyard fence be?
A maximum 6-foot fence, wall, or hedge is allowed in side and rear yards, provided it is not in the clear sight triangle at intersections.
Can I build a taller fence if it is open?
In some cases, taller fences may be allowed if they are at least 50% open, such as chain link. Contact Planning at (805) 677-3941 for specific requirements based on your lot and zoning.
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