Hanford, CA Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Kings County keeps fence permitting light for ordinary fences. The County has adopted the California Building Standards Code (Title 24) through Chapter 5 of the Code of Ordinances, and California Building Code Section 105.2 lists 'Fences not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high' as work exempt from a building permit. The Development Code mirrors this: Articles 4 and 5 state that any fence, wall or gate over seven feet in height is a structure and requires a building permit prior to construction. Electric gate operating mechanisms are a notable exception - installing the motor and wiring for an electronically operated entry gate requires a building permit and a final inspection, even if the gate itself is short. Fences around new single-family swimming pools built after January 1, 1998 must meet the safety-barrier requirements of California Health and Safety Code Sections 115920 through 115927. A retaining wall over four feet (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall), or one supporting a surcharge, also needs a permit under CBC 105.2. Even where no building permit is needed, fences still must comply with zoning height, setback and Traffic Safety Visibility Area rules, so it is wise to confirm requirements with the Community Development Agency before building.