Alameda, CA Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

The City of Alameda strictly limits fence materials under AMC Section 30-5.14(e). Barbed wire, razor wire, and other similar materials are prohibited as any part of any barrier. Chain-link fencing (including cyclone, diamond plastic-link, and lookalikes) is not permitted as part of any barrier on residentially zoned or developed property except where specifically allowed. The exceptions (30-5.14.f) permit chain-link up to 6 feet in rear and side yards on residentially developed property where the yard is not a street side yard, not the rear yard of a corner or double-frontage lot, and not adjacent to public/quasi-public uses (streets, parks, schools, churches). Where no feasible alternative exists, chain-link not in a front yard may be allowed for recreation or safety reasons subject to use permit approval with conditions to mitigate visual impact, such as decorative elements, color coating, or landscaping screening. Separately, "see-through style" material is defined as fencing in which opaque material (excluding posts) is less than 50% of any square foot; this material type is what allows the limited height extensions (e.g., 3 ft to 4 ft, 6 ft to 8 ft). Material choices in historic districts are further shaped by Design Review (AMC 30-37). These city material rules are more restrictive than the California Building Code, which does not prohibit specific residential fence materials.