Placer County, CA Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)

Placer County regulates fence height through its Zoning Ordinance, Section 17.54.030 (Landscaping and fencing). Within the front setback, the general maximum is three feet. An exception allows open wire, chain link, wood rail, or similar open-style fencing (materials that do not conflict with vehicle sight distance, as determined by the Department of Public Works) up to four feet in the Residential Single-Family (RS) and Residential Multifamily (RM) districts where the site and surrounding parcels are at least one acre in size, and up to six feet in the Residential Agricultural (RA) and Residential Forest (RF) districts. Fences may be taller within the street-side setback, up to seven feet, provided they are not within a public utility or multi-purpose easement and do not violate the clear-view triangle at corner lots. In rear and side yards outside required setbacks, solid fencing up to seven feet is typical for residential lots, as noted in county variance staff reports. Heights above the limits require a variance approved by the Zoning Administrator under Section 17.60.100. Because exact limits depend on zone district, lot size, and setback location, property owners should confirm with Placer County Community Development Resource Agency (CDRA) Planning Services before building.