Alameda County requires a building permit for fences over 7 feet tall in unincorporated areas. Fences under 7 feet generally do not need a permit but must comply with zoning height and setback limits.
Under Alameda County General Ordinance Code Title 17 (Zoning) and the California Building Code as adopted by the county, fences 7 feet or less in height in unincorporated areas typically do not require a building permit, but they must still comply with zoning standards including height limits by yard location and clear-vision requirements at intersections and driveways. Fences over 7 feet require a building permit from the Alameda County Public Works Agency or Planning Department. Pool barriers and retaining walls over 4 feet (measured from the bottom of the footing) have separate permit triggers regardless of fence height. Electric, barbed-wire, and razor-wire fences are generally prohibited in residential zones. Property owners should call (510) 272-6984 or visit the Alameda County Community Development Agency to verify zone-specific requirements and obtain the correct permit.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Alameda County, CA
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