Fences in unincorporated Fresno County must comply with zoning ordinance setback, height, and visibility requirements. The county regulates fence placement relative to property lines, road rights-of-way, and utility easements. Agricultural fences follow different standards than residential fencing.
The Fresno County Zoning Ordinance (Title 15) establishes fence requirements for unincorporated areas. All fences must be constructed entirely on the property owner's land or on the property line with neighbor agreement per Civil Code 841. Fences must not encroach into county road right-of-way, which extends beyond the edge of pavement on most county roads. Property owners should verify right-of-way boundaries before installing fences along roadways. Sight-distance triangles at intersections and driveways must be maintained with fences limited to 3 feet in height within the triangle area. Barbed wire is permitted in agricultural zones for livestock containment but is restricted in residential zones. Razor wire and concertina wire are prohibited in residential areas. Electric fences are permitted on agricultural parcels for livestock management. Fences must be maintained in good repair and must not create a hazard or nuisance condition. Dilapidated fences visible from public roads may be subject to property maintenance enforcement. In planned developments and specific plan areas, additional fence standards may apply per the applicable plan.
Fence violations are handled through Fresno County Code Enforcement, typically on a complaint basis. Violations may result in notice-and-cure letters followed by administrative citations. Fences encroaching on county right-of-way may be ordered removed.
See how Fresno County's fence requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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