In unincorporated San Diego County, fences under 6 feet generally do not require a building permit per County Code Section 91.1.105.2. Fences over 6 feet, retaining wall-fence combinations, and fences in special areas (wildfire zones, scenic corridors) require permits.
County Code Section 91.1.105.2 exempts fences not over 6 feet in height from building permit requirements. However, permits are required for: fences over 6 feet, fences combined with retaining walls where the total height exceeds 6 feet, fences in scenic highway corridors, fences in wildfire zones that must meet fire-resistive standards, and fences that require grading. The County Department of Planning & Development Services processes fence permits. A site plan showing the fence location, height, and materials is typically required. Zoning compliance verification ensures the fence meets setback and height requirements for the zone.
Building a fence that requires a permit without obtaining one may result in stop-work orders, required removal, fines, and retroactive permit fees.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle permit requirements.
See how Elfin Forest's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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