Palo Alto requires a building permit for fences over 7 feet tall or any retaining-wall combination exceeding 4 feet; fences at or under 6 feet generally do not need a permit.
Under the California Building Code as adopted by Palo Alto in PAMC Title 16, fences 7 feet or less in height do not require a building permit, but they must still comply with zoning height and setback rules in PAMC 18.40.090. Building permits are required for fences over 7 feet, for any fence combined with a retaining wall where the total exceeds 4 feet above grade, and for pool or spa safety barriers which must meet California Health and Safety Code 115920 requirements. Electrical fence components, concrete footings over 30 inches deep, and masonry walls generally trigger permit review. Permits are issued by the Development Services Center at City Hall and typically cost 150 to 400 dollars depending on scope.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto prohibits amplified music audible beyond the property line during quiet hours and requires a special event permit for outdoor amplification in publ...
Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto Airport (PAO) enforces a voluntary curfew and noise abatement procedures, with FAA preemption limiting local authority over flight operations.
Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto enforces strict decibel limits by zone under PAMC 9.10.040: 60 dBA day / 50 dBA night in residential, scaling up to 70 dBA in manufacturing zones.
Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto permits construction Monday-Friday 8am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 6pm, with no work allowed on Sundays or holidays under PAMC 9.10.060.
Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto requires encroachment permits for new driveways, regulates curb cut dimensions, and prohibits blocking sidewalks or adjacent driveways under traffi...
Palo Alto, CA
Palo Alto restricts RV, trailer, and boat storage on public streets and requires screening for large recreational vehicles on residential property under zoni...
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