Sunnyvale, CA Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Rear/side yard measurement
- From highest adjoining grade
- Front yard measurement
- From top of curb
- Front yard by-right cap
- 4 ft.
- Side/rear by-right cap
- 8 ft.
- Open fence definition
- Up to 4.5 ft., 50% open above 3.5 ft.
- Vision triangle rule
- Applies to all but open fences
Summary
Sunnyvale measures fence height from the highest adjoining grade in rear and side yards not on a street, and from the top of curb in front and reducible front yards, with by-right caps of 4 feet in front yards and 8 feet in side, rear, and reducible front yards.
Measurement of Fence Height. Fence height in the rear and side yard (not located on a street) is measured from the highest adjoining grade to the highest point of the fence. Fence height in the front and reducible front yard is measured from the top of curb, or street if there is no curb to the highest point of the fence.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4856529; v14 updated 2026-05-19).
Full Breakdown
020(d) sets the measurement method: fence height in the rear and side yard, when not located on a street, is measured from the highest adjoining grade to the highest point of the fence, while fence height in the front and reducible front yard is measured from the top of curb, or the street if there is no curb, to the highest point of the fence. 020(h) is met. 060. Corner lots and driveway intersections must keep fences clear of the required vision triangle so that all fences except open fences comply with those sightline standards, protecting visibility for vehicles and pedestrians at intersections and driveways.
Violations & Fines
Constructing a fence that exceeds the by-right height cap for its yard location under Table 19.48.025 without the required permit, or building a solid fence within a required vision triangle in violation of Section 19.48.020(e), is enforceable under Chapter 1.04 and can require the property owner to modify or remove the noncompliant fence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is fence height measured in Sunnyvale?
What is the tallest fence I can build without a permit in my Sunnyvale side yard?
Do fences near a corner lot in Sunnyvale have height restrictions for visibility?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sunnyvale
How Sunnyvale compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·California rules heatmap·Compare Sunnyvale to another location·View the California fence regulations overview
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Height Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Santa Clara County handle height limits.