San Mateo regulates fences under Section 27.84.010 of the zoning code. The ordinance does not specify required materials but fences must not create safety hazards. Barbed wire is restricted to non-residential areas. Building permits are required for fences exceeding six feet.
The City of San Mateo fence ordinance (Section 27.84.010) regulates height but does not prescribe specific materials for residential fences. Common acceptable materials include wood, vinyl, masonry, wrought iron, and composite materials. Chain-link fencing is permitted in side and rear yards. Barbed wire, razor wire, and electrically charged fencing are restricted to industrial and agricultural areas and are not permitted in residential zones. All fences must be structurally sound and maintained in good condition. Dilapidated fences may be cited by Code Enforcement. Fences over six feet require a building permit per Title 23 applied for by all abutting property owners. Fences between 6 and 8 feet in the rear/side require 50% openness above 6 feet.
Prohibited materials in residential zones result in code enforcement notices. Building fences over 6 feet without a permit violates Title 23. Dilapidated fences may be cited as nuisances.
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo prohibits nuisance barking under the city's noise ordinance and animal control provisions. Owners must prevent habitual barking that disturbs neigh...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo experiences aircraft noise from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), located approximately 3 miles north. The city cannot restrict FAA-contro...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo regulates amplified sound under SMMC Section 7.30.080. Handheld amplified sound equipment cannot exceed 10 watts. All amplified sound must comply w...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo limits permitted construction to 7 AM–7 PM weekdays, 9 AM–5 PM Saturdays, and noon–4 PM Sundays/holidays. Equipment cannot exceed 90 dB at 25 feet....
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo specifically regulates leaf blower operation under Chapter 10.80 in addition to the general noise ordinance. Leaf blowers must comply with both the...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo follows California CDFW regulations banning many exotic species. Local animal code may restrict wild or dangerous animals. Contact Peninsula Humane...
See how San Mateo's material restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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