FMC §15-2019 prohibits barbed wire, razor wire, sheet metal, salvage materials, and electric fencing in residential zones in Fresno. Acceptable materials are wood, vinyl, masonry (brick, block, stone), wrought iron, chain link with or without slats, composite, and bamboo. Commercial and industrial zones may use chain link and barbed wire with setback.
Fresno regulates fence materials under FMC Chapter 15. Prohibited residential materials: barbed wire, razor wire, concertina wire, sheet metal, salvage tin or roofing, doors or pallets used as fencing, and electric fences (low-voltage pet containment systems inside the yard are not considered fences). Common permitted materials: cedar or redwood planks, treated pine, vinyl, stucco-over-CMU, brick, stone, wrought iron, chain link (with slats required on street frontage in some zones), and composite panels. Commercial zones may use chain link and may allow barbed wire above 6 feet with a 3-strand outrigger pointed inward. Industrial zones may use barbed wire or razor wire on fences 7 feet or taller. Historic districts have additional review. The finished side must face the street or adjacent property. HOA rules in master-planned communities such as Woodward Lake and Copper River impose additional material restrictions and color standards.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Fresno code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
See how other cities in Fresno County handle material restrictions.
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