Fences up to 7 feet in San Mateo generally do not require a building permit if they comply with zoning regulations. Fences over 7 feet require a building permit and a SPAR Fence Exception planning application.
Under SMMC Ch. 27.84, fences at or below 7 feet in height that comply with all fence regulations (location, setbacks, height limits by zone) do not require a building permit. However, fences exceeding 7 feet require both a building permit and approval of a Site Plan and Architectural Review (SPAR) Fence Exception application. Masonry fences of any height may require a permit. Contact the Building Division at (650) 522-7172 or Planning at (650) 522-7010 for project-specific guidance.
Unpermitted construction: stop-work order. May require removal or modification. Retroactive permit with penalty fees.
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo prohibits nuisance barking under the city's noise ordinance and animal control provisions. Owners must prevent habitual barking that disturbs neigh...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo experiences aircraft noise from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), located approximately 3 miles north. The city cannot restrict FAA-contro...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo regulates amplified sound under SMMC Section 7.30.080. Handheld amplified sound equipment cannot exceed 10 watts. All amplified sound must comply w...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo limits permitted construction to 7 AM–7 PM weekdays, 9 AM–5 PM Saturdays, and noon–4 PM Sundays/holidays. Equipment cannot exceed 90 dB at 25 feet....
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo specifically regulates leaf blower operation under Chapter 10.80 in addition to the general noise ordinance. Leaf blowers must comply with both the...
San Mateo, CA
San Mateo follows California CDFW regulations banning many exotic species. Local animal code may restrict wild or dangerous animals. Contact Peninsula Humane...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Mateo County.
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