When planning to install or modify a fence on your property, it’s essential to understand the role of your local Planning Department. These city or county agencies are responsible for overseeing land use and ensuring that developments, including fences, comply with established zoning laws and community standards.
Understanding the Planning Department
The Planning Department is a division of your local government tasked with:
- Reviewing Development Proposals: Assessing plans for new constructions or modifications to ensure they align with zoning ordinances.
- Enforcing Zoning Regulations: Implementing rules related to land use, building heights, setbacks, and more.
- Issuing Variances: Granting approvals for projects that meet all regulatory requirements.building.saccounty.gov
- Overseeing Code Enforcement: Addressing violations and ensuring compliance with local codes.
How the Planning Department Affects Your Fence Project
The Planning Department’s influence on fencing projects includes:
- Height Restrictions: For example, in Sacramento County, front yard fences in Residential zones are typically limited to 3 feet for solid fences, 4 feet for chain link, and up to 7 feet for open ornamental designs like wrought iron. Side and rear yard fences can generally be up to 7 feet tall. planning.saccounty.gov+2code-enforcement.saccounty.gov+2code-enforcement.saccounty.gov+2
- Placement Guidelines: Fences must often adhere to setback requirements, ensuring they don’t encroach on public rights-of-way or obstruct visibility at intersections.
- Material and Design Standards: Some areas have specific guidelines on acceptable fencing materials and designs to preserve community character.
Seeking Variances for Exceptions
If your desired fence doesn’t meet standard regulations, you might consider applying for a variance—a formal request to deviate from specific zoning requirements. However, obtaining a variance involves:
- Potential Costs and Delays: The process can be time-consuming and may incur application fees.
- Demonstrating Unique Circumstances: Proving that strict adherence to the code imposes undue hardship due to unique property conditions.
- Undergoing a Review Process: Submitting detailed plans and justifications for review by planning officials or commissions.
In Sacramento County, the Planning Department oversees the variance process. A variance may be required to provide limited relief from the requirements of the Code where strict application of particular requirements will create a practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship, prohibiting use of the land in a manner otherwise allowed by the Code. Applicants must demonstrate that special circumstances peculiar to the property, such as size, shape, topography, or location, justify the variance. The process includes submitting a detailed application, paying associated fees, and potentially attending public hearings. It’s important to note that the application fees are non-refundable, and approval is not guaranteed. For more information, you can review the Variance Supplemental Application Form.
The Importance of Compliance
Adhering to local ordinances is crucial. Non-compliant fences can lead to:
- Fines and Penalties: Violations may result in monetary penalties or orders to modify or remove the fence.
- Legal Disputes: Neighbors or local authorities might challenge unauthorized constructions, leading to potential legal issues.
- Resale Complications: Non-compliant structures can hinder property sales or refinancing efforts.
Seeking Variances for Exceptions
If your desired fence doesn’t meet standard regulations, you might consider applying for a variance—a formal request to deviate from specific zoning requirements. However, obtaining a variance involves:
- Potential Costs and Delays: The process can be time-consuming and may incur application fees.
- Demonstrating Unique Circumstances: Proving that strict adherence to the code imposes undue hardship due to unique property conditions.
- Undergoing a Review Process: Submitting detailed plans and justifications for review by planning officials or commissions.
Accessing Local Ordinances
Most cities and counties publish their zoning ordinances and fence regulations online. These resources provide detailed information on permissible fence heights, materials, and placement guidelines.
At Fantastic Fence, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of local city and county ordinances related to fencing, accessible through our website. This centralized resource aids homeowners in understanding and complying with regional requirements.
Closing
Engaging with your local Planning Department and understanding their regulations is a vital step in any fencing project. By ensuring compliance, you protect your investment, maintain community standards, and avoid potential legal complications.
If you’re uncertain about specific requirements or need assistance navigating local ordinances, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Fantastic Fence, we’re committed to guiding you through the process, ensuring your fencing project meets all necessary standards.