Long Beach Height Limits Rules (2026): What You Need to Know
Some RestrictionsKey Facts
The Short Version
Long Beach limits front yard fences to 3 feet (4 feet in designated special areas if the extra foot is wrought iron or chain link). Side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet 6 inches. Barbed wire is prohibited except in industrial zones. Fences under 6'6" generally do not require a building permit but still need Planning Bureau review.
Full Breakdown
LBMC Chapter 21.43 (Table 43-1) sets fence and garden wall height limits by location. Residential front yard fences are limited to 3 feet; in areas designated by City Council resolution as special fence height areas, the limit increases to 4 feet provided the additional foot is wrought iron or chain link. Side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet 6 inches.
Barbed wire and sharp/protruding objects are prohibited except in industrial zones (IM, IG, IP) atop fences over 6 feet. Decorative wrought iron is exempt. Height is measured from grade on the public right-of-way side for fences adjoining public areas, or the average grade of both sides for fences between private properties. Fences of wood, chain link, or wrought iron at 6'6" or less do not require a building permit, but Planning Bureau review of location, height, and material is always required. Masonry walls over 4 feet require engineered drawings.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Non-conforming fences may be subject to code enforcement action requiring removal or modification. Contact the Development Permit Center at (562) 570-5223, ext. 3.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can my front yard fence be?
Do I need a permit to build a fence?
Can I use barbed wire on my fence?
Sources & Official References
How does Long Beach compare?
See how Long Beach's height limits rules stack up against other locations.