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

The fence permit trigger in the Paramount Municipal Code sits in Section 15.28.110(D)(1), in the chapter on excavations and artificial pools. It says that for the construction of a new swimming pool, or of a fence over six feet in height, a building permit must be obtained from the City Engineer. The next sentence sets the exemption: no permit or inspection is necessary for a fence around an existing pool unless the fence exceeds six feet in height, or retains more than three feet of earth or other material. Two tests therefore bring an existing pool fence into the permit system: height above six feet, or a retaining function above three feet of earth or other material.

The same section adds an approval step for pool fences built differently from the printed wood, wire, and masonry specifications. Under Section 15.28.110(C), any other type of fence construction needs City Engineer approval before the fence is erected, and complete plans and details must be submitted in triplicate before the alternate type can be approved.

Fence height is separately limited by zoning. Section 17.44.340 allows a wall, fence, or hedge in any R zone not exceeding 42 inches in a required front yard, and not exceeding eight feet anywhere to the rear of the rear line of the required front yard, with exceptions for alley gates and corner-lot vision clearance. It also bans barbed wire, concertina wire, razor wire, cut glass, or other sharp points as a fence or part of a fence, wall, or hedge along any property line or within any required side, rear, or front yard.

Building Code fees are those established by resolution of the Paramount City Council under Section 15.04.030, so the permit fee is not printed in the pool chapter.