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

Alpine County's published zoning standards focus on fence height and visibility rather than broadly prohibiting particular fence materials, so common materials such as wood, wire, split-rail, and metal are generally allowed in residential zones, subject to height limits. The key location-specific control is design review: within the Markleeville Townsite/Historic District, projects can require a Markleeville Design Review Permit, with the Design Review Committee determining compliance with County Code Chapter 18.56 and the adopted Markleeville Design Guidelines, which can influence the appearance and character of fences in that area. Beyond design review, fence appearance and materials may also be limited by recorded CC&Rs in a subdivision, which the county advises owners to check with their homeowners association before building. In wildfire-prone terrain, owners should also consider defensible-space best practices (state law PRC 4291 requires a 30-to-100-foot defensible space around structures), which can favor non-combustible fencing near a home even where the zoning code is silent. For any parcel, the height, sight-distance, and permit rules in Chapter 18.68 and the building guide still apply regardless of material. Confirm your zone and any special-area guidelines with the Planning Division.