Fences 6 feet or less in Los Angeles are exempt from building permits. Fences over 6 feet require a LADBS permit. LAMC restricts front yard fences to 3.5 feet in residential zones. All fences must comply with zoning district requirements regardless of permit status.
The LA Building Code exempts fences not over 6 feet in height from building permit requirements. For fences exceeding 6 feet, a building permit from LADBS is required. LAMC zoning regulations impose additional height restrictions by yard location: Front yard fences in R1 and other residential zones are limited to 3.5 feet (42 inches). Side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet. Corner lot street-side yards are treated as front yards for fence height purposes. Swimming pool barrier fences must meet minimum 5-foot height requirements. Retaining walls combined with fences have cumulative height rules. LADBS offers Express Permits for simple fence projects that do not require plan review. The PermitLA web app can be used to apply for fence permits online.
Fences exceeding zoning height limits without approval may result in LADBS enforcement with fines starting at $311. Fences in the public right-of-way may be removed at the owner's expense. Non-compliant pool barrier fences are high-priority enforcement items.
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