Fence Requirements for the City of Atherton
The city of Atherton is situated in San Mateo County, California, that has many upscale neighborhoods and luxury homes. Being a residential suburb, the city has several requirements regarding the fencing material and height to maintain the beauty and visual appeal of the city. If you own a property in Atherton and are planning to install a new fence or replace an existing fence, understanding the city’s fence requirements is imperative.
Here’s everything you need to know:
Fence Permit Requirements
Before starting any fencing work, you need to obtain a permit from the city of Atherton’s Building and Planning Department. The permit will guarantee that your proposed fence meets the city’s requirements for fencing material, height, location, and other zoning ordinances. To obtain a permit, you need to submit the building permit application form with a site plan and a detailed drawing of the proposed fence.
Fencing Material
The city of Atherton specifies the fencing material based on the location on the property. For instance, the front yard fences must be transparent, open-meshed fencing or wood picket fences, while the rear yard can have wood, vinyl, or chain-link fences. Fences made of barbed wire, electrical wire, or razor wire are strictly prohibited.
Fence Height
The height of the fence depends on the location on the property. For front yard fencing, the height cannot exceed 42 inches, while the rear yard fence height can go up to 6ft 6in or 6ft 10in maximum, depending on specific backyard dimensions. There are special requirements regarding fence heights when it comes to corner lots and zoning restrictions.
Fencing Setback Requirements
Setback requirements refer to how far from the property line the fence can be installed. The corner lots have specific setback requirements. The front yard fence must have a minimum setback of 30ft from the curb, while the side fence must be set back at least 20ft. For inside yard fences, the maximum setback is 3ft from the property line.
Fencing Maintenance Requirements
The city of Atherton also has specific maintenance requirements for fences, which apply to existing and new fences as well. Every fence must be maintained in a way that presents an attractive visual appearance, with no visible means of support, such as cables or braces. You are not allowed to store materials or garbage around your fence. Also, fences must not lean, sway, rust, or be in a state of debilitation and have to be repaired or replaced if found to be not in compliance.
FAQs
Q. Do I need a permit to install a new fence?
A. Yes, you need a permit from the city of Atherton’s Building and Planning Department before installing a new fence.
Q. What are the fence height requirements in Atherton?
A. The height requirements for fences depend on the location on the property. For front yard fencing, the height cannot exceed 42 inches, while the rear yard fence height can go up to 6ft 6in or 6ft 10in maximum, depending on specific backyard dimensions.
Q. Can I use any material for my fence?
A. No, the city of Atherton has specific requirements regarding fencing materials based on the location on the property. The front yard fence must be a wood picket fence, open-meshed fence, or other transparent fencing styles. The rear yard can be wood, vinyl, or chain-link fencing.
Q. What is the setback requirement for fences in Atherton?
A. The setback requirement for fences in Atherton changes based on the location on the property. For corner lots, the front yard must have a minimum setback of 30 feet from the curb, and the side fence must be set back at least 20 feet. Inside yard fences cannot be setback further than 3 feet from the property line.
Q. Does my fence need to be maintained?
A. Yes, every fence must be maintained in a way that presents an attractive visual appearance, with no visible means of support, such as cables or braces. You are not allowed to store materials or garbage around your fence. Fences must not lean, sway, rust, or be in a state of debilitation and have to be repaired or replaced if found to be not in compliance.
Conclusion
The city of Atherton has specific requirements regarding fencing material, height, setback, and maintenance. Before starting any fencing work, it is best to obtain a permit from the city’s Building and Planning Department to ensure compliance with zoning ordinances. By following the city’s standards, you can ensure the safety of the public, enhance the visual appeal of your property, and also add value to it.
