Hanford, CA Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Unincorporated Kings County regulates fences by how transparent they are rather than by a list of approved or prohibited materials. Article 25 of the Development Code defines an Open Fence as a structural barrier 'so constructed that not less than 50 percent of the vertical surface is open to permit the transmission of light, air and vision,' a Solid Fence as one where '51% or more of the vertical surface is closed,' and a Screened Fence as one where '90% or more of the vertical surface is closed' (a slatted chain-link or vine-covered fence can qualify as screened). These categories drive the height and placement rules: an open fence up to seven feet may stand in a front yard where a solid seven-foot fence would have to be set back ten feet, because the open fence preserves visibility. Where the Code requires screening of outdoor storage next to a residential zone, it specifies 'a solid fence or masonry wall or compact growth of natural plant materials not less than six feet in height.' Beyond these openness and screening rules, the Development Code does not prohibit common fence materials such as wood, chain link, vinyl, masonry or wrought iron. Any fence over seven feet, however, becomes a structure and must meet California Building Code structural standards through the permit process.