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

Fence, wall, and hedge heights in the unincorporated county are set by Chapter 18.34 of the Title 18 Zoning Code (Unified Development Ordinance). Height is measured vertically from the highest finished grade abutting the fence to its top edge, and grades may not be artificially raised to gain extra height (Section 18.34.020). Under Table 3-1 (Residential Zone Standards), open or solid fences, walls, and hedges within front setbacks for the first 15 feet are limited to 4 feet 0 inches, while fences and walls at 15 feet or more from the property line may be up to 7 feet 0 inches; hedges in that interior area have no stated height limit. In agricultural, commercial, mixed-use, and industrial zones, Table 3-2 also limits fences and walls within front setbacks to 4 feet 0 inches and allows up to 7 feet 0 inches abutting other districts. Within sight-distance triangles at intersections and driveways, nothing higher than 2 feet 6 inches is permitted (Section 18.34.020.D). Corner-lot fences over 2 feet 6 inches in the street-side yard must be set back at least 16 feet from the face of curb. These limits do not apply where a greater height is required by another code provision or condition of approval.