Riverside, CA Fence Regulations: Fence Requirements (2026)

Under Riverside Municipal Code Title 19 (Zoning), residential fences must be constructed of durable, weather-resistant materials: wood, vinyl, masonry, wrought iron, chain link with slats (where permitted), or equivalent. Barbed wire, razor wire, and electric fences are prohibited in residential zoning districts and only allowed in industrial or agricultural zones with permits. All fences must preserve corner sight-distance: at intersections and at driveway aprons, a clear-vision triangle must be kept free of anything taller than 30-36 inches so drivers can see pedestrians and oncoming traffic. Fences cannot be placed in public right-of-way, utility easements, or drainage easements without encroachment permits. Fence footings and posts must be set back from the property line enough that no part of the foundation encroaches on the neighbor. Historic neighborhoods (Wood Streets, Seventh Street, Mission Inn district) have additional design-review requirements regulating materials and style through the Cultural Heritage Board. Fences must be maintained in good repair; leaning, broken, or graffitied fences visible from the street can be cited as a public nuisance under RMC Chapter 6.15.