Upland, CA Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

The City of Upland strictly limits what fences and walls may be made of under Development Code Section 17.13.060. Per Section 17.13.060(C), 'chain-link, barbed wire, razor wire, or wire mesh fences are prohibited in all residential zones' and in areas visible from a public or private street. Section 17.13.060(B) further prohibits fences constructed of scrap and improvised materials, listing sheet metal, vehicles, underground or above-ground tanks, garage doors, aluminum siding, and corrugated tin. These prohibitions are stricter than the California Building Code, which regulates structural permitting (fences over 7 ft) but does not dictate aesthetic materials. The restriction is a local zoning and design standard intended to maintain neighborhood character. Permitted materials are addressed in Section 17.13.060(A): fences and walls should be constructed of decorative masonry, ornamental steel or iron, or wood, and must complement the architectural style of the primary structures on the property. Because chain-link is broadly banned in residential and street-visible locations, homeowners commonly use wood, vinyl, wrought-iron, or block walls instead. Industrial zones have more latitude on height (up to 8 ft) but should still confirm material standards. Confirm acceptable materials for your specific zone and any street-visibility considerations with the Planning Division at (909) 931-4130 before purchasing materials.