Modesto, CA Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Modesto Municipal Code section 10-4.406(b)(3) requires that any fence located along the front of commercial or industrial zoned property meet applicable front-yard and street-side-yard setback requirements and 'be constructed of decorative wrought iron or other similar material as authorized by the Director.' The code also specifies materials for required walls and fences between dissimilar uses (Table 4.4-1), such as 'solid decorative masonry walls' along property lines adjacent to residential zones and decorative board fences with masonry pilasters for certain land uses (e.g., churches). For residential fences in side and rear yards, the code does not prescribe a specific material - wood, vinyl, chain link, masonry, and wrought iron are all permitted so long as height and clear-vision rules are met. Razor wire and electrified fencing are not addressed for residential lots and would generally require Building Official approval.