Burbank Permit Requirements Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Burbank's Building Division follows California Building Code Section 105.2, which exempts fences not over 7 feet high from permit requirements, but the city's own zoning code imposes stricter height limits that must be met regardless of permit status. A fence built without a permit must still conform to zoning height limits: 3.5 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards. Exceeding these limits without a variance or permit constitutes a zoning violation even if no building permit was technically required.

When a building permit is required — for fences over 6 feet, masonry walls over 3.5 feet, or fences on retaining walls — applicants must submit plans to the Building Division, pay applicable fees, and schedule inspections. For masonry, concrete block, and stucco walls over 3.5 feet in height, the permit application must include structural engineering drawings stamped by a licensed California structural engineer. Height is measured from the finished grade on the higher side of the fence. When a fence is placed on top of a retaining wall, the combined height of the retaining wall and fence is used to determine whether a permit is required. Barbed wire, razor wire, electric wire, and similar dangerous wire types are prohibited on fences in all residential zones. Property owners are strongly encouraged to have their property surveyed by a licensed surveyor before installing a fence along or near a property line, as fence encroachments onto neighboring property can create civil liability. Contact the Burbank Building Division at (818) 238-5220 for permit applications.