Sacramento requires building permits for fences over 7 feet tall, all retaining walls over 4 feet, and pool barriers; shorter residential fences do not need permits but must meet zoning.
Under SMC Title 15 and Title 17, residential fences up to 7 feet in height generally do not need a building permit but must follow zoning standards: 3 to 4 feet in front yards and 6 to 7 feet in side and rear yards. Permits are required for fences over 7 feet, any pool barrier (minimum 60 inches), retaining walls over 4 feet, and masonry walls. Corner lots have sight-triangle visibility rules limiting front fence height to 3 feet. Permit fees start at roughly 100 dollars plus plan check.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Sacramento code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Sacramento, CA
The City of Sacramento does not have a stand-alone movable tiny house (THOW) ordinance like neighboring West Sacramento's Ordinance 24-9. Tiny homes are only...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento regulates carports under City Code Chapter 17.624 (Residential Accessory Structure and Use Regulations). Attached carports are governed by section...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento treats above-ground pools the same as in-ground pools when water exceeds 18 inches deep. A building permit, manufacturer's specs, retractable ladd...
Sacramento, CA
Per Sacramento City Code 9.16.090, all pools and spas need a 60-inch barrier with a self-latching gate. New or remodeled pools at single-family homes must ha...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento sheds under 120 sq ft don't need a building permit (Sac. City Code §15.20). Max 18 ft overall height, 10 ft wall height, min 4 ft from main house,...
Sacramento, CA
Sacramento enforces both state law (Cal. Health & Safety Code §§115920-115929) and Sacramento City Code 15.64.070, which require every swimming pool or spa t...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Sacramento County.
See how other cities in Sacramento County handle permit requirements.
See how Sacramento's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.