Fence permits in Santa Monica are regulated under the zoning code. Front yard fences, walls, and hedges are limited to 42 inches (3.5 ft). Height modifications up to 4 ft above limits available through administrative review; greater increases require a Director hearing.
Under SMMC §9.21.050, fences must comply with height limits and hazardous visual obstruction rules (§9.21.180). For side or rear fences exceeding the 8-foot limit, the Director may grant a modification of up to 4 additional feet if: the adjacent parcel owner(s) sharing the common property line agree, provide verification of ownership, execute a notarized letter, and consent to recording the modification with the LA County Recorder. Existing nonconforming fences may be registered and modified up to 50% above the registered height under §9.43.080. Fences within 5 feet of a driveway or intersection must be under 24 inches to maintain visibility per §9.21.180.
Non-compliant fences may be subject to removal orders, administrative citations, and fines. Unpermitted height modifications may require restoration to compliant height.
Santa Monica, CA
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Santa Monica, CA
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Santa Monica, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
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