In addition, fences and walls along side and rear property lines, outside of the front setback area, are required to have 1 foot of lattice, which allows for the passage of light and air, when the fence exceeds 6 feet in height; total maximum height allowed is 7 feet. Fences and walls along side property lines may not exceed 3 feet in height within the front setback area.
Height
Height is measured from the bottom to the top of the fence or wall. Fences placed on top of a retaining wall do not include the height of the retaining wall. Fences and walls on corner lots have additional requirements. See the figure to the right for an illustration of setback and height restrictions.
Materials
The following fence and wall materials and types are prohibited unless otherwise approved by the Planning Commission.
A. Residential Zoning Districts: Barbed wire, chain link, razor wire, sheet metal and electric fences.
B. Commercial Zoning Districts: Chain link and sheet metal fences. Barbed wire, razor wire and electric fences within the front setback area or where a property abuts a residential zoning district or residential land use designation.
C. Industrial zoning districts: Barbed wire, razor wire, chain link, sheet metal and electric fences within the front setback area.
Permit Requirements
Fences 7 feet in height or under are exempt from building permits. Per the Morgan Hill Municipal Code, the top foot is required to be lattice, allowing light and air to pass through. Fences taller than 7 feet in height are not allowed.
Building Division Permit Requirements