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San Mateo County, CA Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Some Restrictions

Verified 1 month ago|Source: San Mateo County Fence Permit →

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Key Facts

Under 6 Ft: No building permit required
Over 6 Ft: Building permit required
Masonry Fences: Permit required regardless of height
Contact: Planning & Building (650) 363-4161

City-specific rules exist: Daly City, Redwood City, San Mateo, and South San Francisco have their own permit requirements rules that differ from San Mateo County's county-level regulations. If you live in one of those cities, check the city-specific page instead.

Summary

Fences up to 6 feet in unincorporated San Mateo County generally do not require a building permit. Fences over 6 feet or masonry fences of any height require a building permit from Planning & Building.

Full Breakdown

San Mateo County does not require a building permit for residential fences at or below 6 feet. All fences exceeding 6 feet in height and masonry fences of any height require a building permit from the County Planning & Building Department. If a fence encroaches on a public right-of-way, an encroachment permit from Public Works is also required. Corner lots with over-height fences may need a site distance study by a civil engineer. Contact Planning & Building at (650) 363-4161.

Violations & Fines

Unpermitted construction: stop-work order. May require removal or modification. Retroactive permit with penalty fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit to build a fence in San Mateo County?

How much does a fence permit cost in San Mateo County?

Under 6 Ft: No building permit required. Over 6 Ft: Building permit required. Masonry Fences: Permit required regardless of height. Contact: Planning & Building (650) 363-4161.

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San Mateo County, CA Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

Related San Mateo County Ordinances

Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Events

Parking Rules: Abandoned Vehicles

Parking Rules: Overnight Parking

Animal Ordinances: Chickens & Livestock

Fire Regulations: Brush Clearance

Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting

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