Garden Grove Height Limits Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

The City of Garden Grove's zoning code (Title 9 — Land Use) establishes maximum fence and wall heights for residential and commercial properties. In single-family and multi-family residential zones, fences and walls within the required front yard setback are limited to 42 inches (3.5 feet) in height as measured from the adjacent finished grade. This lower front yard limit is intended to maintain an open neighborhood streetscape, ensure visibility for drivers exiting driveways, and provide clear sight lines for pedestrian safety.

Side yard and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet in height, which is the standard residential fence limit throughout Orange County. The 6-foot measurement is taken from the finished grade on the higher side of the fence. Where there is a significant grade difference between adjacent properties, the height is measured from the higher side, which may result in the fence appearing shorter from the lower property. Retaining walls that function as fences or are topped by fencing are measured from the bottom of the retaining wall to the top of the fence.

Corner lots in Garden Grove are subject to additional sight-distance requirements. Fences, walls, hedges, and other vertical obstructions within the sight triangle at intersecting streets must not exceed a height that impairs the visibility of motorists approaching the intersection. The specific dimensions of the sight triangle depend on the classification and speed limit of the intersecting streets. The city's Public Works Department may require removal or modification of fences that create sight-distance hazards.

Common fence materials include wood, wrought iron, vinyl, chain-link, and concrete masonry block. The city does not generally restrict specific materials in residential zones, but barbed wire, razor wire, concertina wire, and electrified fencing are prohibited on residential properties. Decorative post caps and finials that extend a few inches above the fence line are generally acceptable. Property owners seeking to build a fence that exceeds the standard height limits must apply for a variance or conditional use permit through the Garden Grove Planning Division at (714) 741-5312.