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

Under Footnote (2) to Table 3-1 of Santa Rosa City Code Section 20-30.060, 'any fence exceeding seven feet in height requires a Building Permit.' The 2019 Residential Fences handout from Planning & Economic Development - Building Division reinforces this: 'fences over 7' in height require a Building Permit.' The handout also catalogs the structural requirements for fence posts (redwood construction grade or better, or pressure-treated Douglas fir #2 or better), embedment depth, and post spacing based on California Building Code Table 1806.2 soil class. To exceed Table 3-1 height limits in residential setbacks, an applicant must obtain a Minor Director Conditional Use Permit per Section 20-30.060.D - the review authority must find the permit reasonably necessary, that the fence will not create a safety hazard, that its appearance is compatible with the neighborhood, that it is a planned architectural feature, properly oriented, and of sound construction. This CUP option is not available within a required vision triangle. Temporary construction fences are exempt from these permits under Section 20-30.060.F provided they comply with the Building Code.