Sacramento County, CA Privacy & Surveillance: Privacy Screening (2026)

Sacramento County zoning regulations allow residential fences up to 6 feet in height in rear and side yards. Front yard fences are regulated under Section 5.2.5 of the Sacramento County Zoning Code, with heights typically limited based on the zoning district. Fences meeting zoning standards are exempt from permit requirements. Fence materials must comply with county standards — fencing made from secondhand materials not designed for fencing, thin plywood (under 5/8 inch), particle board, paper, plastic tarps, cloth, or similar materials is prohibited. Privacy fences serve an important function under California law: a fenced yard creates a reasonable expectation of privacy, which is legally significant for security camera and recording law. Under California Penal Code 647(j), areas shielded from public view by adequate fencing are considered private spaces where unauthorized surveillance is illegal. Fences over 6 feet require a building permit and potentially structural engineering. Pool enclosure fences must be at least 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates under California building code.