West Covina Permit Requirements Rules (2026): What You Need to Know
Some RestrictionsThe Short Version
West Covina requires building permits for most new fences and walls, particularly those exceeding certain heights or using masonry construction. Fences and walls over 6 feet in height always require a building permit. Block walls and masonry fences of any height require a permit because they are structural elements that must meet seismic and engineering standards. Simple wood or vinyl fences up to 6 feet in the side or rear yard may qualify for a simplified over-the-counter permit process.
Full Breakdown
The West Covina Building Division administers permits for fence and wall construction to ensure compliance with structural, seismic, and zoning standards. A building permit is required for any fence or wall that exceeds 6 feet in height as measured from finished grade. Additionally, all block walls, concrete masonry unit (CMU) fences, and brick or stone walls require a building permit regardless of height because they are load-bearing or structural elements subject to California Building Code requirements for lateral resistance, footing depth, and reinforcement. The permit process for masonry walls typically requires a site plan showing the wall location, a cross-section detail showing footing dimensions and rebar spacing, and confirmation that the wall does not encroach on utility easements.
Simple wood privacy fences and pre-manufactured vinyl fence systems up to 6 feet in height installed in the side or rear yard may qualify for an expedited over-the-counter permit process. This typically involves submitting a basic site plan showing the fence location relative to property lines and setbacks, paying the applicable fee, and receiving same-day approval. Front yard fences, because of the lower height limits and streetscape visibility, may receive additional design review from the Planning Division before permit issuance.
Retaining walls that exceed 4 feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall require engineered structural plans prepared by a licensed civil or structural engineer. These plans must be submitted with the permit application and are reviewed by the Building Division for compliance with the California Building Code. Property owners are advised to verify exact property lines before fence construction — the Building Division may require a licensed surveyor's certificate if the fence location is near or on a property line. Contact the Building Division at (626) 939-8430 for the current permit fee schedule and application requirements.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Constructing a fence or wall without the required permit is a building code violation. The property owner will receive a notice requiring them to either obtain a retroactive permit (which may include penalty fees of double the original permit cost) or remove the unpermitted construction. Unpermitted masonry walls that do not meet structural standards may be ordered demolished. Failure to comply results in administrative citations starting at $100 and escalating for continued non-compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a 6-foot wood fence in my backyard?
Do block walls always need a permit in West Covina?
What happens if I build a fence without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Related Ordinances in West Covina
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsFence Regulations · West Covina, CA
West Covina's zoning code establishes maximum fence and wall heights based on the location of the fence on the property. In residential zones, fences in the ...
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West Covina neighbor fence disputes are governed primarily by California Civil Code Section 841, the Good Neighbor Fence Act of 2013. Under this state law, a...
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