Lassen County, CA Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Unincorporated Lassen County does not publish a separate fence-permit ordinance; permitting follows the California Building Standards Code, which the county administers through Planning and Building Services. Under California Residential Code Section R105.2 (Work exempt from permit), fences not over seven feet high do not require a building permit, and retaining walls that are not over four feet in height, measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, are exempt unless they support a surcharge (such as a slope or load above). A fence taller than seven feet, or a retaining wall taller than four feet or carrying a surcharge, generally requires a building permit and engineering review. Importantly, the building-permit exemption does not waive the Title 18 zoning limits: a residential fence is still capped at three feet in a required front yard and six feet (occasionally eight) in side and rear yards regardless of whether a building permit is needed. The county provides a Building Permit Online Portal for applications. Because requirements depend on height, location, and zoning district, contact Lassen County Planning and Building Services (221 S. Roop St., Susanville, 530-251-8333) before construction. These rules apply to unincorporated areas only; the City of Susanville issues its own permits.