Fence or deck costs in Santa Maria

Santa Maria writes its own fence exemption into the building code. Wood, chain-link or similar fences up to six feet high can skip the building permit. A fence that includes masonry or similar pilasters doesn't get that pass, whatever its height. So a six-foot wood fence with brick or block columns every few panels is permit work here.

The front yard has an unusual option. Fences and walls in a required front yard are normally capped at three feet. But a wall or fence up to six feet can go in the front yard if it sits at least 10 feet back from the back of the sidewalk or the front property line, and runs no more than a third of the lot's width. That leaves room for a short courtyard wall by the entry without walling off the street. In the city's neotraditional neighborhoods, the setback for that taller piece is five feet, and nothing can go in the public utility easement out front.

Side and rear fences stop at six feet unless the Zoning Administrator approves more. And if you're thinking of a tall hedge to get around the limits, the code closes that door: the same height rules apply to hedges and other plantings that form a barrier like a fence.