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

In unincorporated Mono County, fence standards are set by Section 04.160 of the General Plan Land Use Element rather than by a standalone fence-permit chapter. A fence within the standard limits, no more than 7 feet generally and no more than 4 feet in a required front yard, conforms to the development standards without a discretionary zoning permit. Fences exceeding those height limits may be permitted subject to a use permit, a discretionary approval reviewed by the county to ensure the taller fence does not obstruct the line of sight from vehicles in roadways or driveways. Separately, building-permit requirements are governed by the California Building Code, which Mono County administers. Under the statewide code, fences are commonly exempt from a building permit up to a height threshold (typically around 6 to 7 feet), while taller fences and many retaining walls require structural review. Because the exact permit triggers depend on height, location, and structural design, property owners should contact the Mono County Community Development Department before installation. This guidance applies only to unincorporated parcels; the incorporated Town of Mammoth Lakes issues its own permits under its separate municipal code.