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

The Development Code's fence standards (Articles 4 and 5) are written to protect public safety and sight distance rather than to mandate a particular look. In R-1 and RM zones a solid fence, wall or hedge up to seven feet is allowed if set back at least ten feet from the front property line (and the street side line on corner lots); an open fence up to seven feet may stand in the front yard itself if visibility is preserved. In Rural Residential and agricultural zones fences may exceed seven feet. Gates have specific rules: a manually operated gate used for primary vehicle access must be set back the greater of 20 feet or enough room for vehicles to pull fully onto the property, so cars do not block the road while the gate opens; electrically operated entry gates may sit anywhere used for access but require a building permit and final inspection. Secondary access gates (to a rear yard for an RV or boat, for example) need no extra setback but must lock from the interior side only. Open-type decorative gates in front or street side yards may not exceed eight feet. Swimming-pool fencing for single-family pools built after January 1, 1998 must satisfy California Health and Safety Code Sections 115920-115927. All heights are measured from the lower of the site or adjacent grade.