Los Angeles Height Limits Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know
Some RestrictionsKey Facts
- Front Yard Max Height
- 3.5 feet
- Side/Rear Yard Max Height
- 6 feet
- Permit Threshold
- Over 6 feet, or masonry over 3.5 ft in front
- Corner Lot Sight Triangle
- 3 feet max in visibility zone
- Permit Fee
- $100 – $350
The Short Version
LA caps front yard fences at 3.5 feet and side/rear fences at 6 feet in residential zones. If your property sits on a corner lot, the rules get more complicated because of sight-line requirements — you may be limited to 3 feet within a triangular area near the intersection. Permits are required for any fence over 6 feet or for block/masonry walls over 3.5 feet in front yards. The city doesn't regulate fence materials as strictly as some places, but chain link in front yards is prohibited in many specific plan areas. HOAs in LA often have their own rules on top of city code.
Full Breakdown
LA's fence regulations (LAMC Section 12.22-C,20) set a two-tier system based on yard location. Front yards max out at 3.5 feet, which applies to any fence between your front building line and the street. Side and rear yards get the 6-foot allowance.
Corner lots face additional constraints. Within the "sight triangle" — roughly 10 feet back from the corner in each direction — nothing can exceed 3 feet. This ensures drivers can see pedestrians and other cars approaching the intersection.
If you want a taller fence, you'll need a building permit and possibly a zoning variance. Permits for standard fences run $100-$350 depending on materials and length. Retaining walls that also serve as fences are measured from the higher grade, which can complicate things on hillside properties. LA's hillside ordinance areas have additional restrictions that sometimes reduce the allowable height further.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Building an unpermitted fence over 6 feet triggers a code violation notice with 30 days to obtain a permit or modify the fence. Fines start at $500 per day after the compliance deadline. The city can also require removal at the property owner's expense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a 6-foot privacy fence in my LA front yard?
Do I need a permit for a new fence in LA?
My neighbor built a fence on the property line — who pays?
How does Los Angeles compare?
See how Los Angeles's height limits rules stack up against other locations.