Calaveras County, CA Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

For unincorporated Calaveras County, the Zoning Code (Title 17) does not impose a separate fence permit; instead Section 17.16.080.A.1.d treats fences and retaining walls as setback encroachments that are 'subject to applicable requirements of Title 15, Building and Construction.' Title 15 adopts the California Building Code, and CBC Section 105.2 lists fences 'not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high' among work exempt from a building permit. This means an ordinary residential fence up to 7 feet tall generally does not need a county building permit, although the exemption 'shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of' other county codes. Retaining walls are treated separately: CBC 105.2 exempts retaining walls 'not over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding' flammable liquids, so a taller or surcharged retaining wall needs a permit. Even permit-exempt fences must still comply with zoning rules, including the intersection and driveway visibility standards in Section 17.16.140 and any defensible-space and fire-safety requirements of Title 15. Because requirements depend on height, location, and zone, applicants should confirm with the Calaveras County Building Department before construction.