If you're going to install a fence in your front yard in a residential area, it's important to know about the regulations for your city. Fences in the front yard typically follow a different set of regulations than those in the backyard. Homeowners' Associations and other local ordinances may play a role in the type and style of fence you can have as well. In this post, we'll go over what you should know about getting a fence for your front yard.
Typically, the maximum height for a fence in the front yard is 4 feet tall. In some areas, like for a single-family property in San Jose or Fresno, the limit is 3 feet tall. This height requirement often includes the front yard "setback area" which refers to the sides of the front yard. You can see an example of a fence that changes in height once it reaches the setback area and front yard below.
In terms of style, it's often required to use "open" styles of fences, which have gaps in between the pickets. This is also shown in the image below. The main reason for these height and style regulations is to make sure fences don't reduce the visibility of the street, and ensure the safety of drivers turning into or out of a residential lot.
Because regulations can vary based on your city or region, here are some links to the regulations for a few of the cities in California we provide fence installation services for. Just click the appropriate link for your city below:
For more information on general California Fence Laws, you can read our post here.
Ultimately, the specific regulations vary depending on where you live, which is why it's always a good idea to double-check with your city and HOA before getting a new fence. If you choose us to install your fence, our experts will work with you to make sure that your new fence is within the regulations for your area.
