Sonora Height Limits Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

The City of Sonora regulates fence heights as part of its zoning code under Title 17. In standard residential zones, fences and walls located in the required front yard setback area are limited to 3 feet in height to maintain visibility, neighborhood openness, and traffic sightlines. Fences in rear yards and interior side yards may be up to 6 feet in height. Fences along street-facing side yards on corner lots may be subject to special visibility clearance requirements to protect intersection sightlines.

Fences constructed of materials deemed hazardous — such as unfinished barbed wire in residential settings — may be prohibited outright or require special approval. Retaining walls that also function as fences are evaluated under both the fence height rules and building code requirements; retaining walls over a certain height (generally 4 feet from bottom of footing) require a building permit and engineering review.

Property owners who wish to construct a fence taller than the applicable limit may apply for a Variance through the Sonora Planning Commission. Variances are granted when strict application of the standard would cause practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship. Contact the Community Development Department at (209) 532-3508 for pre-application guidance.