In unincorporated San Diego County, fences and freestanding walls up to 6 feet do not require a building permit if they comply with zoning setback requirements. Front yard fences are subject to lower height limits. Fences over 6 feet require permits.
Under San Diego County's building and zoning codes, fences and freestanding masonry walls not over 6 feet in height that comply with the County Zoning Ordinance are exempt from building permits. Front yard fences in residential zones are typically limited to 3-4 feet within the required front setback to maintain street visibility. Side and rear yard fences up to 6 feet are standard. Fences exceeding 6 feet require a building permit and may need structural engineering review. Retaining walls over 4 feet (measured from bottom of footing to top) require permits. In fire-prone areas, fencing materials should be fire-resistant — wood fences near wildland-urban interface areas may be subject to additional requirements. Pool barrier fences must be at least 60 inches per California Building Code with self-closing, self-latching gates. Corner lot properties must maintain sight triangles at intersections.
Fences exceeding height limits or built without required permits face violation notices, required modification, and potential fines.
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