Placer County, CA Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Placer County does not broadly ban fence materials, but Zoning Ordinance Section 17.54.030 distinguishes materials by location. Within the front setback, fencing above three feet is allowed only if it is open-style, specifically open wire, chain link, wood rail, or other similar types consisting only of materials that do not conflict with vehicle sight distance as determined by the Department of Public Works, up to four feet in RS/RM (on 1-acre-plus parcels) and up to six feet in RA/RF. Solid or opaque fencing taller than three feet in the front setback is generally not permitted without a variance because it can block visibility. By contrast, where the county requires screening with new development, the material must be opaque, such as solid wood, a masonry wall, or other materials forming an opaque screen, and commercial/industrial buffer walls must be solid. Corner lots are further limited by the clear-view triangle, which restricts fence height (and effectively solid materials) near intersections for traffic safety. Barbed wire and electric fencing are typically restricted in residential areas and more accepted in agricultural settings. Because the rules turn on location, zone, and sight-distance, owners should confirm acceptable materials with Placer County CDRA Planning.