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

In unincorporated Trinity County there is no county-wide list of prohibited fencing materials such as barbed wire or electric fencing in the zoning ordinance. The Building Code defines a 'Fence' (Sec. 15.04.040) as 'a barrier, railing, or other upright structure, typically of wood or wire,' reflecting the rural, agricultural character of the county where wood and wire fencing predominates. Section 15.04.140 (Ordinance 1373) exempts fences up to 7 feet from a building permit without regard to material, as long as zoning allows the fence and any Department of Transportation requirements are met. Material-based restrictions, where they exist, come from two places: a specific zoning district's standards, and overlay districts. The County's agricultural-exemption ordinance notes that exempt structures remain 'subject to all applicable requirements... this includes, but not limited to overlay zoning districts (Flood Hazard, Scenic Conservation, Special Treatment, etc.),' so a fence in a Scenic Conservation overlay may face appearance or visibility conditions, and a fence in a Flood Hazard area must not obstruct flood flows. Because the county is largely rural, agricultural fencing materials like wire and field fence are common and generally permitted. Owners in overlay districts or near scenic corridors should confirm any material or design conditions with the Planning Division before building.