Santa Maria, CA Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Section 12-27.02 of the Santa Maria Municipal Code prohibits barbed wire, razor wire and similar sharp-pointed materials on fences, railings, guards or barriers in any zoning district. The prohibition can be lifted only through approval by the Zoning Administrator or, through the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process, by the Planning Commission, and only on evidence of a special need for safety or security. Where approved, the barbed/razor wire must be securely affixed to the top of a soundly constructed lawful fence or structure at least 6 feet in height. Electric fences are separately regulated by SMMC §9-04 (Building Code) and require a permit from the Community Development Department before installation or use. Standard residential fence materials such as wood, vinyl, chain link, masonry and wrought iron are otherwise permitted subject to the height and setback rules in Chapter 12-27 and the corner-cutback rules in §12-27.03.