Residential Fence Repair & Replacement: Do You Need a Permit?
For most residential properties in Sacramento, you do not need a permit to repair, replace, or build a standard fence—as long as you follow city/county planning ordinances for height, style, and materials:
- Backyard fences up to 6 feet tall ,and in some places 7 feet tall, generally don’t require a permit.
- Front yard fences and fences on slopes, retaining walls, or special planning areas may need permits or reviews. In most cities around Sacramento County front yard fences are limited to 3 feet or 4 feet tall if solid, or up to 6 feet tall if an iron fence you can see through.
- Sacramento COUNTY Fence Ordinance (.gov)
- Fence Height Ordinances for Each City
Commercial Properties: Permit Often Required
For commercial fences, permits are usually required—especially if:
- The fence may block fire egress, drive paths, emergency access, or visibility.
- The fence will be a security barrier (e.g., electric, razor wire, or over 7 feet tall).
- The location or style falls outside standard ordinance or involves unique uses/zoning.
Always check with your local Planning Department, Building Department, and Fire Department:
What’s a Variance—and When Do You Need One?
A variance is special permission to break normal planning rules (like exceeding height limits or unusual placement). The process is detailed, expensive (often nonrefundable deposits), and rare for fences. You must prove a unique hardship and get neighborhood input. Most requests are not approved—follow local ordinances if at all possible.
Who Issues Permits and Who Sets the Rules?
- Building department: The building department is the office that makes sure your fence or gate is built strong, safe, and meets all construction standards for your area. The building department handles safety, structural, and California Building Code compliance (mainly for complex/commercial builds, not basic residential fences).
- Planning department: The planning department is focused on how fences and gates look and fit visually within the neighborhood—they set rules to make sure everything flows well and helps the community feel attractive and organized. Handles zoning, location, and appearance ordinances—the planning code is usually more restrictive and what you’re most likely to need to follow for a fence.
Quick Takeaways
- For most residential repairs/replacements within code, NO permit is required.
- If your fence is in a commercial area, a special use zone, obstructs access, or exceeds height/style limits, you WILL need a permit—sometimes a variance.
- Always follow both building code for structure and planning code for location/appearance.
- Check with your city/county at the planning division before you begin for the latest rules.
Need help with fence codes or a hassle-free installation? Fantastic Fence knows Sacramento’s rules inside and out—contact us for answers, a free estimate, and project planning that’s always compliant!