San Francisco, CA Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit-exempt height (rear/side)
- Up to 6 feet
- Permit-exempt height (elsewhere)
- Up to 3 feet
- Enforcing agency
- Dept. of Building Inspection
- Citation
- SF Building Code § 106A.2
Summary
San Francisco exempts fences up to 6 feet at rear and side lot lines, and up to 3 feet anywhere else on the lot, from a building permit. Taller fences need a permit under Building Code Section 106A.2.
A building permit shall not be required for the following: ... 2. Fences not over 6 feet (1829 mm) high located at the rear and side lot lines at the rear of the property, and all fences not over 3 feet (914.4 mm) in height.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-96: Codes: last updated to include changes made by legislation through Ordinance 133-26, File No. 260686, approved July 23, 2026, effective August 23, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under San Francisco Building Code Section 106A.2, a building permit is not required for fences up to 6 feet tall along rear and side lot lines, or up to 3 feet tall anywhere else on the lot. Any fence exceeding these heights needs a permit reviewed by the Department of Building Inspection before construction begins. The exemption sits within the code's broader 'work exempt from permit' list alongside sheds and low retaining walls, but crossing the height thresholds triggers full permit review and plan submission.
Violations & Fines
Building a fence over the exempt height without a permit is a Building Code violation. DBI can issue a Notice of Violation, require after-the-fact permitting with plan review, and charge re-inspection and penalty fees until the fence is legalized or removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a 5-foot backyard fence in San Francisco?
What height fence needs a permit in San Francisco?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Francisco
California rules heatmap·Compare San Francisco to another location·View the California fence regulations overview
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