Pasadena Permit Requirements Rules (2026): What You Need to Know
Some RestrictionsThe Short Version
In Pasadena, most wood and wrought iron fences up to 6 feet tall do not require a building permit, but are subject to Planning Division zoning compliance review. Masonry walls over 4 feet tall and any fence or wall over 6 feet tall require a building permit with engineered drawings. Properties in historic districts or within the Historic Preservation Overlay require additional Historic Preservation Commission or Design Commission review and approval regardless of height.
Full Breakdown
Pasadena Building and Safety Division administers fence and wall permit requirements in coordination with the Planning Division's zoning compliance review. For most standard residential fences — wood privacy fences, wrought iron, tubular steel, or chain link — up to 6 feet in height, no building permit is technically required from a structural standpoint. However, these fences must still comply with the zoning code's height and setback standards under Municipal Code Chapter 17.40 (front yard maximum 3.5 feet, side and rear maximum 6 feet), and it is strongly recommended to have Planning confirm compliance before installation.
Masonry walls — including concrete block, brick, stone, or stucco-clad block — over 4 feet in height (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall) require a building permit with plans stamped by a licensed structural engineer or civil engineer. Any fence or wall of any material exceeding 6 feet requires a building permit. Retaining walls that retain 4 feet or more of differential soil height also require engineered plans and a permit. For properties within one of Pasadena's historic Landmark Districts (such as Bungalow Heaven, Oak Knoll, San Rafael, or Madison Heights) or on the Historic Register, the Historic Preservation Commission must review and approve the design, materials, and placement of any new fence or wall — this applies regardless of height or materials. Properties within Design Review Overlay Zones may require Design Commission review as well. Submit permit applications at the Pasadena Building and Safety Division at 175 N. Garfield Ave. or contact (626) 744-4200.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Fence or wall constructed without required permit: stop-work order, fines of $100 to $500 per day, and required demolition or retroactive permitting. Fence in a historic district without Historic Preservation Commission approval: notice of violation, fines, and requirement to restore or modify the fence to an approved design. Non-conforming fence height: code enforcement notice with 30 days to remedy, then fines of $100 per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a 6-foot wood fence in Pasadena?
Do I need a permit for a block wall or brick wall?
My property is in Bungalow Heaven. Do I need special approval for a new fence?
Sources & Official References
How does Pasadena compare?
See how Pasadena's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.