Santa Barbara County, CA Fence Regulations: Fence Requirements (2026)

The core fence standard for the unincorporated County is LUDC Section 35.30.070. A fence (including walls, gates and gateposts) must meet the height-and-permit thresholds in Table 3-1 (non-agricultural zones) or Table 3-2 (agricultural zones) for its location, and in no case may a fence exceed the height limit established for the applicable zone in Article 35.2. Height is measured from natural grade at the base of the lower side to the top edge of the material (Section 35.30.070.B). A limited exception (Section 35.30.070.C.3) allows up to 10 percent of a fence's linear length to exceed the exempt maximum height where the review authority finds that topographic or other unavoidable conditions would otherwise destroy its architectural integrity. On corner lots, Section 35.30.090.K requires that no planting, fence, wall or structure within the vision-clearance area exceed 2.5 feet above the adjacent curb grade, or 3 feet above the adjacent pavement, whichever is less. In the Coastal Zone, a fence must avoid wetlands, beaches, environmentally sensitive habitat and coastal bluffs to remain exempt, and must not block public access or scenic views. Swimming-pool enclosures are governed separately by the California Building/Residential Code pool-barrier rules. Confirm your zone, setback lines, and any overlay (coastal, hillside, scenic) with Santa Barbara County Planning & Development before building.