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

Fence height in the unincorporated County is regulated by the Sutter County Zoning Code, Chapter 1500, Part 2, with the numeric standards set out in Table 1500-06-2 (Development Standards and Exceptions) administered by the Community Services Department (Planning Division). In the residential districts the front and street-side yard setback area carries a low maximum height (reported as 3 feet 6 inches) so the fence does not block driver sight lines, while fences outside the front setback - in interior side and rear yards - may rise to approximately 7 feet. A 2022 Zoning Code text amendment (County Project U21-0092) amended Table 1500-06-2 specifically to 'allow for increased heights for ornamental fences and walls within front or street side yard setback areas in the Estate Residential and Ranchette Districts when in compliance with certain standards and does not result in a vehicular site distance hazard.' Under that exception, ornamental open fences may reach up to about 7 feet, and ornamental walls (with spaced pilasters that are open between them) up to about 5 feet, subject to Zoning Clearance approval and the requirement that they not restrict vehicular sight distance as determined by the Director. Because exact figures vary by zone, confirm your parcel's district and standards with County Planning before building.