Bakersfield restricts certain fence materials under BMC Title 17 zoning regulations. Barbed wire, razor wire, concertina wire, and electrified fencing are generally prohibited in residential zones but may be allowed in industrial or agricultural zones with permits. Chain link is permitted in most zones but may be restricted in front yards or require slats for screening in some districts. All materials must be maintained in good repair.
BMC Title 17 prohibits barbed wire, razor wire, and electrified fences in residential (R-1, R-2, R-3) zoning districts. These materials may be permitted in commercial and industrial zones, often with height restrictions (for example, barbed wire only above 6 feet on security fences around industrial properties). Agricultural parcels in Kern County outside Bakersfield city limits follow Kern County zoning and typically allow standard ranch fencing including barbed wire. Chain link fencing is permitted in most Bakersfield zones but may be limited or require screening slats in front yards or along arterial streets. Decorative materials such as wrought iron, wood, vinyl, masonry, and composite are allowed subject to height limits. Temporary construction fencing is permitted during active construction. Deteriorated or broken fences may be declared nuisances and ordered repaired or removed. Contact Planning at (661) 326-3733 with questions.
Installing prohibited materials such as barbed wire in a residential zone violates BMC Title 17 and results in administrative citations and removal orders. Electrified fences in residential zones present safety risks and may trigger immediate abatement. Citations typically start around $100 and escalate with continued non-compliance. Civil liability for injuries caused by prohibited materials is significant.
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