Fence Height and Setback Regulations in Concord
In the city of Concord, fences and walls located along a front property line or within a required front setback are generally limited to a maximum height of three feet. On properties where residential uses are allowed, fences and walls in side or rear yards may reach a maximum height of six feet, with specific provisions for potential height increases up to eight feet under certain conditions.
Front Yard Fence Height Limits
Fences and walls located along a front property line or within a required front setback in the city of Concord shall not exceed a height of three feet [Section 18.150.040]. These structures are not permitted to project beyond the front building line of the primary structure on the property [Section 18.150.040].
Side and Rear Yard Fence Height Limits
On properties where residential uses are allowed, fences and walls in side or rear yards generally shall not exceed a maximum height of six feet [Section 18.150.040].
Permitted Height Increases
Under specific circumstances, fences and walls in residential side or rear yards may exceed the six-foot limit:
| Condition | Maximum Allowed Height |
|---|---|
| Fences within required side or rear yard setbacks with lattice on the top one foot | 7 feet [Section 18.150.040] |
| Fences or walls within required side or rear yard setbacks with a minor exception | 8 feet [Section 18.150.040] |
| Fences or walls that meet the primary structure setback requirements | 8 feet [Section 18.150.040] |
| Fences or walls in side or rear yards on properties with nonresidential or mixed uses | 8 feet [Section 18.150.040] |
Measurement and General Provisions
The height of a fence or wall is measured as the vertical distance between the finished grade at the base of the structure to the top edge of the structure [Section 18.150.040]. The finished grade shall not be modified to artificially increase the height of the fence [Section 18.150.040]. Where the elevation of the finished grade within six feet of the base of the fence differs between sides (such as at the top of a slope or on a retaining wall), the height is measured from the side with the lowest natural grade [Section 18.150.040].
Prohibited materials include barbed wire, razor wire, or concertina wire, unless specifically approved by the planning division for special security or animal control needs [Section 18.150.040]. Additionally, temporary fencing is prohibited unless associated with construction sites, city-sponsored events, or other approved temporary uses [Section 18.150.040].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.150.040: Fences and walls