Section 456 — FENCES

456.1 Fences.

San Francisco Building Inspection Commission Codes · 2022 edition · ingested 2026-07-08 · San Francisco

456.1 Fences. Fences on any property containing a Group R Occupancy shall not be higher than 10 feet (3048 mm). Fences located less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from any public sidewalk shall not be higher than 10 feet (3048 mm) unless they are of open-type materials such as chain link fabric. Fence height shall be measured from the level of general existing adjacent ground of the general area prior to the improvement of the properties. A fence or railing placed on top of the retaining wall shall be measured from the top of the wall.

Fences constructed wholly or in part of barbed wire are prohibited, except when permitted with the express written permission of the Building Official, and the Fire Department in the following situations:

  1. On top of a fence more than 7 feet (2.134 m) high, protecting a dangerous or hazardous area.

  2. Within a private area, enclosed by a seven-foot-high (2.134 m) fence, such that entry to the area is limited by the outer, nonbarbed fence.

  3. In special instances for localized protection, and in areas within or atop a building to isolate dangerous conditions.

Chapter 5

GENERAL BUILDING HEIGHTS AND AREAS

No San Francisco Building Code Amendments

Chapter 6 TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION

No San Francisco Building Code Amendments

Chapter 7 FIRE AND SMOKE PROTECTION FEATURES

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