Merced, CA Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)

Fence height in the incorporated City of Merced is governed by MMC Chapter 20.30 (Walls and Fences) within Title 20 (Zoning). According to the City of Merced Development Services / Planning Division Planning & Permitting FAQs, the maximum height for a back yard fence is 7 feet. Front yard fencing may be a maximum of 4 feet tall, with the exception of corner lots and the visual corner of a driveway. On a corner and in the visual corner of a driveway, the maximum height is 2 1/2 feet so that fences and walls do not block driver sight lines. These are City zoning limits and are distinct from Merced County's rules, which apply only to unincorporated areas outside city limits. They also differ from the California Building Code permit threshold: under 2022 CBC Section 105.2, fences not over 7 feet high are exempt from a building permit, but the City's zoning height caps (4 ft front, 7 ft rear) still control regardless of the permit exemption. Height is generally measured from the adjacent finished grade. For questions on a specific lot, the City directs residents to the Planning Division at (209) 385-6858.