Los Angeles County, CA Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit-free height threshold
- 6 feet or less
- Pool/spa/hot tub barriers
- Always require a permit, regardless of height
- Barrier inspection fee
- $133.41
- Misdemeanor fine (max)
- $1,000 per day
- Code authority
- Title 26, § 106.3(2) and § 107.9.K
Summary
Fences 6 feet or shorter do not need a building permit in unincorporated LA County; taller fences or any fence used as a pool or spa barrier require a permit plus an inspection.
106.3 Work Exempted. A building permit shall not be required for the following: 2. Fences which are not used as a barrier to private swimming pools, spas, or hot tubs, and ground signs, provided that: 2.1 Fences do not exceed 6 feet (1.8 m) in height. 2.2 Ground signs do not exceed 6 feet (1.8 m) in height. [107.9 Other Fees:] K. For inspection of barriers for swimming pools, spas and hot tubs .....$133.41
Full Breakdown
Section 106.3(2) of the County Building Code exempts fences from permit requirements when they do not exceed 6 feet in height and are not used as a barrier to a private swimming pool, spa, or hot tub. Once a fence exceeds 6 feet, or if it serves as a pool/spa/hot tub barrier at any height, a building permit is required. The Building Official charges a $133.41 barrier inspection fee for pool, spa, and hot tub barriers (Section 107.9.K). The exemption applies to fences in conjunction with ground signs as long as both the fence and sign stay at or under 6 feet. Regardless of whether a permit is required, fences must still comply with Title 22 zoning requirements for setbacks and height limits in specific plan areas.
Violations & Fines
Erecting a fence that requires a permit without obtaining one is a misdemeanor under Title 26, Section 103.3, punishable by a fine up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to six months, or both, for each day of violation. Building and Safety may also assess enforcement costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a 5-foot wood fence?
What about a 7-foot privacy fence?
My yard has a pool: does my fence around it need a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Los Angeles County
California rules heatmap·Compare Los Angeles County to another location·View the California fence regulations overview
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