A building/zoning permit is generally required in San Rafael for fences over 6 feet or masonry/retaining walls; pool barrier fences must meet the California Building Code. Standard residential fences at the height limit may be permit-exempt.
Most ordinary fences in San Rafael can go up without a permit — a standard residential fence at or under the height limit is often exempt. The permit requirement targets the bigger and riskier work: fences over six feet, masonry walls and retaining walls generally need building or zoning approval because height and structural loads raise real failure concerns. Pool fences are their own category — they must meet the California Building Code's barrier standards no matter their height. Before building, confirm which side of the line your project falls on with the building or planning counter.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
San Rafael, CA
§19.20.080(4) prohibits the use of amplified sound in city parks and buildings without a permit. Combined with the citywide §8.13 noise limits, this is the m...
San Rafael, CA
Parking or storing large commercial vehicles in San Rafael residential zones is restricted by zoning, with weight/length thresholds limiting what may be kept...
San Rafael, CA
RV, trailer and boat storage on residential lots in San Rafael is regulated by zoning, which restricts placement and prohibits living in a parked RV. The cit...
San Rafael, CA
Driveway approaches in San Rafael require an encroachment permit and must meet city standards; vehicles generally must be parked on an approved paved surface...
San Rafael, CA
§5.40.040(1) makes it unlawful to repair or wash any motor vehicle on a city street. Routine driveway washing and minor home maintenance are not affected, bu...
San Rafael, CA
Beekeeping is permitted in San Rafael subject to local zoning standards on hive number, placement and setbacks. California has no statewide ban; hives must b...
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