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

The County of Orange Zoning Code Section 7-9-64 governs fences, walls, retaining walls, sound walls, and screens on unincorporated property, in addition to each zoning district's own standards. Within a required front setback (up to a depth of 20 feet), solid fencing is limited to three and one-half (3.5) feet, while open fencing and pilasters may be a maximum of five (5) feet. In any rear or side setback that adjoins a street but has no vehicular access, the maximum is six (6) feet. In setback areas that do not border a street, the maximum is six (6) feet on the front, rear, or side. Where an adjoining lot to the side or rear sits higher than the fence base, the fence may be measured from that higher grade but can never exceed eight (8) feet from its own base. In the area where a main building may be built, the district building-height rules apply instead. Sound-attenuation walls along freeways or major arterials may reach 6 feet, or 8 feet under specific elevation conditions. Heights above these limits require approval of a Site Development Permit (up to 8 feet) or a Use Permit from the Zoning Administrator (over 8 feet), with findings that the fence will not create a traffic hazard.