Calaveras County, CA Fence Regulations: Fence Requirements (2026)

The Calaveras County Zoning Code (Title 17) defines a fence in Section 17.43 as 'Any horizontal or vertical structural device forming a physical barrier intended to enclose areas, separate properties, form a screen, or prevent intrusion.' Several requirements apply. First, fences are an allowed encroachment into required setbacks under Section 17.16.080.A.1.d, but remain 'subject to applicable requirements of Title 15, Building and Construction,' which adopts the California Building Code (fences over 7 feet need a building permit). Second, Section 17.16.140, Visibility at Intersections and Driveways, makes it 'unlawful to install or maintain any view obstructing structure, fence, wall, hedge, or other obstacle between two feet, six inches and eight feet above the nearest roadway surface' within the required visual clearance area; on corner parcels that area is a triangle with two 35-foot sides. Third, near watercourses, Section 17.16.080.B requires development to be set back 50 feet from the top of bank of a stream or edge of wetland, and only fencing 'that does not interfere with the flow of waters or identified wildlife migration corridors' is allowed within that setback. Construction must also meet defensible-space and State Responsibility Area fire-safety requirements of Title 15. Specific standards can vary by zone, so verify with the Calaveras County Planning Department before installing a fence.