Sutter County, CA Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Sutter County's fence rules (Zoning Code Chapter 1500, Table 1500-06-2) are written primarily around height, location, and visibility rather than a list of prohibited materials, so property owners in the unincorporated area may generally use ordinary fencing materials - wood, vinyl, chain-link, masonry, wrought iron, or living hedges - as long as the structure meets the applicable height, setback, and sight-distance standards. Material-specific provisions do appear in a few contexts. The 2022 amendment to Table 1500-06-2 allowing taller ornamental fences and walls in the Estate Residential (ER) and Ranchette (RAN) districts distinguishes 'ornamental open' fencing (which can be taller because it preserves visibility) from solid walls, and limits ornamental walls in the front/street-side setback to spaced pilasters that are open between them.

Any fence used as a swimming-pool enclosure must meet California's pool-safety barrier standards (including limits on chain-link mesh size and gap dimensions). Walls and combination retaining-wall structures must also satisfy the adopted California Building Code. Outside of these targeted rules, the County does not generally dictate fence material in residential zones; confirm with Community Services if your project involves a pool barrier, a sight-distance area, or a design-reviewed use.