A few things to consider before you install a fence in El Monte. These are general guidelines — always confirm current requirements with the City before you start.
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Front Yard Height
El Monte limits solid fences, walls and hedges in the front yard, and within 5 feet of a street-side property line, to 4 feet. You may go to 5 feet with a fence that is at least 50 percent open decorative wrought iron set between decorative block pilasters. Chain link is not permitted on residential property, and barbed, razor or spiked toppings are banned on any wall or fence.
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Side & Rear Yard Height
Everywhere else on a residential lot, fences and walls may be 6 feet, and developments of three or more units must build a 6-foot masonry wall along the rear and interior side lines. Where grades differ, a wall on the lower lot may rise 6 feet above the neighbor's grade and on the higher lot 8 feet, and stepped walls need a 5-foot landscaped bench between tiers.
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When You Need a Permit
The zoning code sets the heights but not the permit threshold, so plan on a Zoning Clearance from the Planning Division for any new fence or wall, and a building permit from the Building Division for block and masonry walls, retaining walls and anything above the standard heights. The taller grade-separation walls and oversized screening walls also trigger Design Review.
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Corner Lots & Sight Lines
On a corner lot the visibility triangle is measured 20 feet along each street from the intersection, starting at the curb line or edge of pavement. Inside that triangle a solid fence, wall or hedge may not exceed 42 inches, though a 4-foot fence is allowed if it is at least 50 percent open decorative wrought iron with block pilasters.
Good to Know
If your home is part of an HOA, check your community's CC&Rs before installing — many HOAs add their own material and height rules on top of the City's. Building a pool or spa? California's Pool Safety Act (Health & Safety Code §115922–115923) requires at least two independent, approved drowning-prevention features, such as a 60-inch enclosure. Fence codes can change, so we always recommend confirming current requirements with the El Monte Community and Economic Development Department before you start. Have questions about your property?
Contact Legacy Fence and we'll help you sort it out.
Source: El Monte Municipal Code §§17.60.120(A) and 17.60.120(E); City of El Monte Community and Economic Development Department.
