Milpitas, CA Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Material limits for fences are listed in Subsection C.2.040.B.2 of the Milpitas Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance, which applies in all zones. Prohibited fences include: barbed wire fences within four feet of a public sidewalk; electrically charged or other hazardous fences, unless such fencing is required by City, state, or federal law or another public agency; and chain-link fencing, except for recreational sports courts (such as tennis courts) or, within a commercial or industrial zone, an expansion of an existing approved chain-link enclosure that is not visible from the public right-of-way or public property. Fences that encroach into public utility or other easements without written approval from the Public Works Director and affected utilities or public agencies are also prohibited. Separately, the design rule bars plain concrete block: block walls must be finished with stucco or decorative split-faced block and capped with a decorative cap. In the 'H' Hillside Combining District, materials are stricter still: fence posts and supporting framework must be wood to maintain the rural character of the hills, and chain-link and cyclone-type fences are not approved materials there; barbed wire on non-wood posts may be erected only on parcels two acres or larger without Planning Commission approval. These rules mean common backyard materials like wood, decorative metal, and finished masonry are generally fine, while industrial materials are tightly limited.