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

Tehama County Zoning Ordinance Section 17.08.030 (Yards) is the only place the county code sets a numeric fence height. It states that 'in R districts fences in side and rear yards may not exceed six feet in height, and fences and hedges may not exceed three feet within the front yard setback.' These limits apply to land zoned R-1, R-2 and other residential districts. The lower 3-foot front-yard limit exists to preserve sight lines and street visibility. Outside residential districts — including the AG-1 (Agricultural/Upland), AG and other rural zones that cover most of unincorporated Tehama County — Title 17 does not impose a specific maximum fence height, though sight-distance rules at driveways and corners and the statewide building code still control. Separately, the California Building Code (adopted by Tehama County) exempts fences seven feet or less in height from a building permit, so a fence taller than seven feet triggers a permit regardless of zone. Because exact zoning of a parcel determines which rule applies, the Planning Department recommends confirming your district by APN before building. Setbacks and engineered-structure rules may also apply to tall masonry or block walls.