Santa Clara, CA Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Santa Clara requires building permits for certain fence installations through the Building Division at (408) 615-2420. No permit is required for residential fences 6 feet or less in height in side and rear yards, or 3 feet or less in front yards. Permits ARE required for: fences taller than 6 feet, fences serving as swimming pool or spa barriers (per CA H&S Code 115920), retaining walls over 4 feet tall (measured from bottom of footing), masonry or concrete fences over 3 feet 6 inches, and any fence within historic districts such as the Old Quad near Santa Clara University. Permit applications require site plans showing property lines, fence location, height, materials, and post footing details. Plan review fees apply, with permit fees based on fence valuation. Electrical permits are additionally required for any fence lighting or automated gates. Neighbors are not required to consent under California Civil Code 841 (Good Neighbor Fence Act) which presumes shared cost obligation, but advance notice is strongly recommended for shared fences.