Santa Monica Height Limits Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

SMMC Section 9.21 governs fences, walls, and hedges in Santa Monica. In residential zones, front yard fences and walls are limited to 42 inches (3.5 feet), which is slightly more generous than some neighboring cities' 3-foot limit. Side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet in height. On corner lots, fences within the visibility triangle at intersections are limited to 30 inches to maintain sight lines for traffic safety.

Santa Monica's location in the California Coastal Zone means that properties within the Coastal Zone may face additional restrictions on fence height and design to protect ocean views and the visual character of the coastal environment. The Planning Division reviews fence proposals for Coastal Zone properties and may impose conditions related to transparency, materials, and height. Prohibited materials in residential zones include barbed wire, razor wire, concertina wire, and electrified fences. Chain link fencing in front yards is generally discouraged. Building permits are required for masonry or concrete walls over 3.5 feet. A variance is required for any fence that exceeds the height limits or deviates from material standards.