Fences under 6 feet in height do not require a building permit in unincorporated LA County. Fences over 6 feet, retaining walls with fences, and fences in special zoning areas require permits. Front yard fences must not exceed 42 inches within the required setback.
Under LA County Building Code and Zoning Ordinance, a building permit is not required for fences and freestanding walls that are less than 6 feet in height in unincorporated areas. However, depending on location (front yard, side yard, back yard), the Department of Regional Planning may require additional review for compliance with zoning. Front setback fences are limited to 42 inches. Fences exceeding 6 feet require a building permit and structural engineering review. Retaining walls over 4 feet (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top) also require permits; when a fence sits atop a retaining wall, the combined height may trigger permit requirements. In hillside management areas, additional height and design restrictions may apply. Pool barrier fences must meet California Building Code requirements (at least 60 inches tall with self-closing, self-latching gates).
Unpermitted fences over 6 feet may result in a notice of violation. The county may require removal, modification, or after-the-fact permit applications with double fees.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
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