Napa County, CA Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger for Special Fence Permit
- Non-compliant design/height/location or fence in road setback
- Building permit threshold
- Generally fences over 7 ft (depends on location/material)
- Electric gate
- Building permit required
- Issuing agency
- Planning, Building & Environmental Services (PBES)
- Contact
- (707) 253-4417, 1195 Third Street, Napa
Summary
A Special Fence Permit from the PBES Director is required when a proposed fence does not meet the height/location rules in section 18.104.270 or when a permitted fence will sit inside the road setback. Any fence over 7 feet may also need a separate building permit, and electric gates always require a building permit.
DO I NEED A SPECIAL FENCE PERMIT? NO, if the proposed fence meets the fence regulations regarding design, height and location. However, please check with the Building Division to see if a building permit will be required. YES, if the design of the fence does not comply with the designated fence regulations or if it will be located within the road setback & requires a building permit, you will need to apply for a Special Fence Permit. A Special Fence Permit may be granted by the Director to modify the requirements provided that a need can be demonstrated for the proposed fence due to the unique nature of the parcel or surrounding environment. ... HOW IS THE HEIGHT OF A FENCE MEASURED? Fence heights are measured from natural grade that exists prior to fence construction. Any fence that exceeds 7 feet in height may require a building permit from the building department depending on the location of the fence and the fence material.
Full Breakdown
Two separate permits can apply to a Napa County fence. 060(C) is required if the fence design, height or location does not comply with the standard rules - for example, if the owner wants to exceed the 6-ft side/rear height with a solid fence, or build a permitted fence inside the road setback. The Director may grant the permit only if a need is demonstrated due to the unique nature of the parcel or the surrounding environment. (2) A separate building permit is required for any fence over 7 ft 'depending on the location of the fence and the fence material' (Fence and Entry Structure brochure), for any electric gate, and for entry structures over 7 ft or with electrical connections.
The Planning Division checklist requires a completed application signed by both owner and applicant, an accurate site plan showing all existing and proposed fences, gates and supports relative to property lines and rights-of-way, dimensioned front elevations showing height, width, length and decorative elements, identification of all materials, and the application fee made payable to County of Napa.
Violations & Fines
Building or modifying a fence that needs a Special Fence Permit or building permit without obtaining one is a Zoning Code / Building Code violation. Napa County PBES Code Compliance handles unpermitted construction complaints; resolution typically involves applying for an after-the-fact permit (which is discretionary) or removing the unpermitted portion. Code Compliance can be reached at 707-253-4417 or 1195 Third Street, Napa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any permit for a code-compliant 6-ft backyard fence?
What goes in a Special Fence Permit application?
Does an entry structure need its own permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Napa County
California rules heatmap·Compare Napa County to another location·View the California fence regulations overview
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