Fence and Wall Setback and Height Requirements in Concord
In the City of Concord, fences and walls located along a front property line or within a required front setback are limited to a maximum height of three feet, while those in side or rear yards generally may reach a maximum height of six feet [Section 18.150.040]. Certain circumstances, such as properties with nonresidential uses, may allow for increased fence or wall heights up to eight feet, and some adjustments may be pursued through a minor exception process [Section 18.150.040].
General Height Limits for Fences and Walls
The Concord Development Code establishes specific height limitations for fences and walls to ensure visibility and neighborhood character:
| Location | Maximum Height |
|---|---|
| Front property line or front setback | 3 feet |
| Side or rear yards (Residential) | 6 feet |
| Nonresidential or mixed-use side/rear yards | 8 feet |
Height Exceptions and Adjustments
Under certain conditions, the height of a fence or wall may be increased beyond the standard limitations:
- Lattice Extensions: Fences within required side or rear yard setbacks in residential districts may be increased to a maximum height of seven feet if the top one foot is constructed of lattice, provided the fence meets all material requirements [Section 18.150.040].
- Minor Exception: Fences or walls within required side and rear yard setbacks may be increased to a maximum height of eight feet, subject to the approval of a minor exception [Section 18.150.040].
- Primary Structure Setback: Fences or walls that meet the setback requirements for the primary structure on the property may be increased in height up to eight feet [Section 18.150.040].
Measurement and Prohibitions
Fence and wall height in the City of Concord is measured as the vertical distance between the finished grade at the base of the fence or wall to the top edge of the structure [Section 18.150.040]. The grade must not be artificially modified to increase the height of the fence.
Certain materials and types of fencing are prohibited within the City of Concord, including:
- Barbed wire, razor wire, or concertina wire [Section 18.150.040].
- Electrified fences [Section 18.150.040].
- Chain link fencing that is visible from public areas, public rights-of-way, or private roadways [Section 18.150.040].
- Temporary fencing, such as plastic or wire mesh fencing, except for authorized construction sites or city-sponsored events [Section 18.150.040].
Traffic Visibility Requirements
Regardless of the allowed height, no fence, wall, or structure may exceed three feet in height if it is located within a "visibility triangle" at a street intersection or driveway [Section 18.150.170]. This requirement is intended to maintain adequate sight distances for pedestrian and vehicle traffic [Section 18.150.170].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.150.040 (Fences and walls)
- Section 18.150.170 (Traffic visibility at intersections and driveways)