Permit Requirements: Simi Valley vs Ventura
How do permit requirements rules compare between Simi Valley, CA and Ventura, CA?
Simi Valley has fewer restrictions than Ventura.
Simi Valley, CA
Ventura County
Most residential fences under 6 feet in Simi Valley do not require a building permit. Permits are required for fences over 6 feet, masonry or concrete walls, and fences with electrical components such as automated gates.
View full Simi Valley rules →Ventura, CA
Ventura County
Ventura generally requires building permits for fences over 6 feet tall and for retaining walls over 4 feet. Standard residential fences of 6 feet or less typically do not require a building permit but must comply with zoning setback and height regulations. Block wall and masonry fences have specific engineering requirements.
View full Ventura rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Simi Valley | Ventura |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6 Feet | No permit needed (wood, vinyl, chain link) | - |
| Over 6 Feet | Building permit required | - |
| Masonry Walls | Permit if over 3.5 feet | - |
| Retaining Walls | Permit if over 4 feet | Permit required over 4 feet |
| Permit Threshold | - | Required for fences over 6 feet |
| Standard Fences | - | 6 ft or less generally exempt |
| Submittal Guide | - | Block Wall/Fence Requirements (BS 322) |
| Contact | - | Community Development (805) 654-7869 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Simi Valley FAQ
Do I need a permit for a fence in Simi Valley?
Standard wood, vinyl, or chain-link fences under 6 feet do not need a building permit. Masonry walls over 3.5 feet, any fence over 6 feet, and retaining walls over 4 feet require permits.
Where do I get a fence permit?
Apply at the Simi Valley Building Division within Community Development at (805) 583-6800. Plans showing height, materials, and property line setbacks are required.
Do I need a permit for a gate motor?
Yes, fences with electrical components including automated gate motors require a building permit for the electrical work and may need planning review.
Ventura FAQ
Do I need a permit for a 6-foot fence in Ventura?
A standard residential fence of 6 feet or less in side or rear yards generally does not require a building permit, but it must comply with zoning setback and height regulations.
When do I need a fence permit?
Building permits are required for fences over 6 feet tall and retaining walls over 4 feet. Block wall and masonry fences may have additional engineering requirements.
Where can I get fence building requirements?
The City publishes block wall and fence submittal requirements (BS 322). Contact Community Development at (805) 654-7869 or visit the City's Document Center online.
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