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Fences and Retaining Walls

Purpose of Regulations

To provide adequate visibility of traffic from driveways
To provide adequate sight distance at street corners
To preserve a compatible street appearance
To provide privacy
To protect abutting properties from excessively high structures
To discourage structures near the street that may conceal persons with illegal intent

What are the Regulations?

General Regulations:

For the purposes of this ordinance, retaining walls, hedges, and dense vegetation are considered fences in a front yard or abutting a street.
Not over 6 feet tall within any yard not abutting a street²
Not over 3 feet tall in a front yard or other yard abutting a street ^1/2/3
The height is determined by measuring from the finished grade at the base to the top of the fence and/or wall. Lattice work and other ornamental projections count in this height.
Fences not within the required front, rear, or side yards may exceed 6 feet

¹ Heights up to 6 feet may be allowed by a level 3 permit
² Heights over 6 feet may be allowed by a level 5 permit
³See Building Department Staff for building permit requirements

Exceptions:

In Agricultural Zones (CA & A)

Fencing for agricultural purposes may be up to 6 feet tall in all yards without the need for a permit if the fencing:
1. Is made of wire which is spaced a minimum of 6 inches apart; or
2. Is made of horizontal wood boards spaced a minimum of 12 inches apart
3. Is not subject to Coastal Zone permit requirements

Exception - Properties along Hwy 1 must first obtain a Use Permit before building an agricultural fence

In Riparian Corridors, Wetlands, and Coastal Areas

Fences are structures that must meet riparian buffer requirements ( See Riparian Corridor Brochure) & Coastal Regulations (Chapter 13.20 in the Santa Cruz County Code)

How to Measure Retaining Wall Height on Roads

Retaining Wall uphill from a road:

Retaining wall downhill from a road:

Can We Help You?

If you have any questions regarding Fences and Retaining Walls, please contact the Zoning Information line or consult the Zoning Counter during walk-in hours.

For complete regulations, see the Santa Cruz County Code, Chapter 13.10.525