Lake County, CA Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Two separate approvals can apply to fences in unincorporated Lake County: a zoning (planning) approval and a building permit. On the building side, the County's Community Development Department applies California Building Code Section 105.2: a building permit is NOT required for most fences up to seven (7) feet in height, but applicants still must check Planning for setback and height restrictions. A building permit IS required for concrete or masonry fences or walls that measure more than four (4) feet from grade to the top; these need structural calculations and drawings stamped by a licensed architect or engineer. On the zoning side, Article 42 of the Zoning Ordinance requires a minor use permit for fences, walls or hedges exceeding four (4) feet in a required front yard (Sec. 42.11(a)) or exceeding six (6) feet in a required side or rear yard (Sec. 42.11(b)). The minor use permit allows the Planning Division, the Public Works Roads Division and the local fire department to review the fence for sight-distance and public-safety impacts before it is built. Requirements differ in agricultural, commercial and manufacturing zones. The County recommends contacting the Planning Division at (707) 263-2221 before building any fence.