Murrieta, CA Fence Regulations: Fence Requirements (2026)

Murrieta Municipal Code Title 16 sets general requirements for residential fences beyond just height. Fences must be structurally sound, properly maintained, and constructed of weather-resistant materials appropriate for residential use. Common acceptable materials include wood (cedar, redwood, pressure-treated), vinyl, wrought iron, tubular steel, masonry block, stucco over block, and composite materials. Chain link is typically discouraged or prohibited in front yards of most residential zones and restricted in appearance in side yards. Barbed wire, razor wire, and electric fences are prohibited in residential zones.

The finished or good side of a fence is customarily required to face outward toward the neighbor or public right-of-way, with posts and rails on the owner's side. Fences must be maintained in good repair: leaning, broken, missing sections, rotted boards, and peeling paint can result in code enforcement action as a property nuisance. Gates must swing inward onto private property, not into the public right-of-way. Temporary construction fencing must be removed upon project completion. Fences near driveways and intersections must comply with corner sight visibility triangle rules to protect traffic safety. HOAs almost always impose additional architectural standards on materials, colors, and designs that go beyond city requirements.