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Modesto, CA Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Permit Threshold
Over 7 feet in height
CBC Authority
California Building Code § 105.2(1)
Issuing Office
Building Safety Division, 209-577-5232
Zoning Check
Planning Division, 209-577-5267

Summary

Modesto follows the California Building Code permit exemption: fences 7 feet or less in height do not require a building permit. Anything taller needs a permit from the Building Safety Division.

Fences 7' or less in height do not require a permit.

Source: MMC Title 10 — Zoning RegulationsView official code

Full Breakdown

The City of Modesto's Building Safety Division applies the California Building Code (CBC) Section 105.2 permit exemption: 'Fences 7' or less in height do not require a permit' (City of Modesto FAQ). This mirrors the statewide CBC §105.2(1) exemption for one-story fences not over 7 feet high. Fences taller than 7 feet, retaining walls over 4 feet (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall) unless supporting a surcharge, fences with electrical components, and pool barrier fences all require a building permit. Permit-exempt status does not waive zoning compliance: every fence must still meet MMC 10-4.406 height and material rules and 10-4.404 clear-vision triangle rules, and applicants should confirm setback compliance with the Planning Division (209-577-5267) before installation. Permits are issued by the Building Safety Division at 1010 10th Street, Suite 3100.

Violations & Fines

Installing a fence over 7 feet without a permit is a violation of MMC Title 9 (Building Regulations) and California Health & Safety Code §17920. Penalties include double permit fees for work performed without a permit, stop-work orders, and required removal or correction. Independent zoning violations can be cited even when no building permit was required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a permit for a 6-foot wood fence in Modesto?
No. Fences 7 feet or less in height do not require a building permit. You still must meet zoning rules in MMC 10-4.406 (height, setbacks, clear-vision triangle).
When does a fence require a building permit?
When it exceeds 7 feet in height, includes electrical components, is a retaining wall over 4 feet, or serves as a pool barrier. Apply at the Building Safety Division, 1010 10th Street, Suite 3100.
Can I skip the zoning check if no building permit is needed?
No. Zoning compliance (height, setbacks, vision triangle, materials in commercial zones) is always required. Modesto recommends confirming with the Planning Division at 209-577-5267 before installation.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Modesto

Height LimitsSome RestrictionsMaterial RestrictionsSome RestrictionsRetaining WallsSome RestrictionsNeighbor Fence RulesFew RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Cat RulesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet Groomer RulesSome RestrictionsSign Regulations: Freeway-Facing SignsSignificant Restrictions

All Modesto rules

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