Height guide

How tall can a fence be in Bakersfield?

Updated October 2026

Six feet in side and rear yards and 4 feet in front yards, for residential zones. That is the rule in Bakersfield Municipal Code section 17.08.180. It depends on a few exceptions: a taller front or side wall can be approved for noise attenuation or to complete a subdivision wall along a major street, and different rules apply in commercial, industrial and agricultural zones and outside city limits.

What are the limits by yard?

The limit covers hedges as well as fences and walls, so a tall hedge on the property line counts too.

When can a wall be taller?

The code allows more height where city or state rules require it for noise attenuation or sight screening, and for subdivision walls along busy streets with the planning commission's approval. Homeowners rarely qualify for these on their own; they mostly apply to new developments.

What are the barbed wire rules?

• Residential zones: no barbed or electrified wire along front, side or rear lot lines or within 3 feet of them, and no sharp wire or points on top of fences under 6 feet.
• Listed commercial and industrial zones: allowed with the lowest strand at least 6 feet 3 inches above the highest adjoining grade, angled toward the owner's side or vertical, not over neighboring land or the right-of-way, with building director approval.
• Agricultural zone: allowed for ag fencing only at least 1,300 feet from a residential area, with building director approval.

Does this apply in Oildale, Rosedale, Shafter or Delano?

No. Those areas fall under Kern County or their own city codes. Ask us, and we will look up the right limit for your address.

Is 6 feet enough for privacy?

For most back yards, yes. If a neighbor's house sits higher, trees or a pergola set back from the fence can add screening without breaking the rule. Related: Bakersfield permit guide and wind-proofing a 6-foot fence.