Bakersfield requires building permits for fences over 6 feet tall and for most retaining walls under BMC Title 15 (Building and Construction) and Title 17 (Zoning). Fences 6 feet and under in side and rear yards generally do not require a permit but must still comply with zoning height and location standards. All fences, with or without permits, must meet vision clearance rules at corners and driveways.
Under California Building Code as adopted by Bakersfield in BMC Title 15, fences over 6 feet in height (7 feet in some zoning districts) require a building permit from the Development Services Department. Pool barrier fences, retaining walls over 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing, and fences on top of retaining walls have additional permit and engineering requirements. Front-yard fences are typically limited to 3 to 4 feet depending on the zoning district per BMC Title 17. Electrified fences and barbed wire are generally prohibited in residential zones. Contact Bakersfield Development Services at 1715 Chester Avenue or call (661) 326-3733 before construction. Permit applications require a site plan showing property lines, fence location, height, and materials. Permits are typically issued within a few business days for straightforward residential projects.
Building without a required permit is a violation of BMC Title 15 and can result in stop-work orders, double permit fees, and orders to remove or lower the fence. Zoning violations are subject to administrative citations starting around $100 for a first offense and escalating for continued non-compliance. Unpermitted fences may also complicate property sales and insurance claims.
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