Richmond generally permits wood, vinyl, chain link, wrought iron, masonry, and composite fence materials in residential zones. Barbed wire, razor wire, and electric fences are prohibited in residential areas. Chain link is restricted in some front yard areas for aesthetic reasons. All materials must be installed and maintained in good condition.
Richmond's zoning code takes a permissive approach to fence materials while prohibiting hazardous types. Allowed materials in residential zones include wood (cedar, redwood, pressure-treated), vinyl/PVC, chain link (subject to front yard restrictions), wrought iron, composite panels, brick, stone, stucco over CMU, and tempered glass panels in frames. Prohibited fence materials in residential zones under RMC Title 15 include barbed wire, concertina/razor wire, electric fences, and any material with exposed nails or sharp projections accessible to pedestrians. Chain link is sometimes restricted in front yards facing public streets in historic or design-review neighborhoods; vinyl-coated chain link (black or green) is often preferred. Temporary or construction fencing must be removed upon completion of work. Industrial and commercial properties may use barbed wire above 6 feet with special approval. All fences must be maintained: broken slats, leaning posts, and peeling paint can trigger Code Enforcement notice under property maintenance standards in RMC Chapter 6.44.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Contra Costa County.
See how other cities in Contra Costa County handle material restrictions.
See how Richmond's material restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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