San Francisco, CA Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Front setback max
- 3 feet
- Side/rear yard max
- 6 feet
- Rear yard only max
- 10 feet
- Governing code
- Planning Code Sec. 136(c)(17)-(19)
Summary
San Francisco caps fences at 3 feet in the front setback, 6 feet in side and rear yards, and 10 feet only in the rear yard under Planning Code Sec. 136(c).
(17) Fences no more than three feet in height above grade; (18) Fences and wind screens no more than six feet in height above grade; (19) Fences and wind screens no more than 10 feet in height above grade;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-96: Codes: last updated to include changes made by legislation through Ordinance 133-26, File No. 260686, approved July 23, 2026, effective August 23, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Planning Code Section 136(c) lists permitted obstructions in required open areas. Fences no more than three feet in height above grade are allowed in setbacks, yards, and usable open space; fences and wind screens up to six feet are allowed in yards and usable open space; fences and wind screens up to 10 feet in height are allowed only in required rear yards. Anything taller needs a variance or exception from the Zoning Administrator.
Violations & Fines
Fences exceeding these caps in a required setback or yard are an unpermitted obstruction; Planning enforcement can require removal or reduction to the code height, and a variance is needed to keep a taller fence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can my front yard fence be in San Francisco?
Can I build a 10-foot fence in San Francisco?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Francisco
How San Francisco compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·California rules heatmap·Compare San Francisco to another location·View the California fence regulations overview
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