Tiburon is a picturesque city located on the peninsula of Marin County, bordered by the stunning San Francisco Bay. Its panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Angel Island, and Alcatraz Island make it an ideal location for both residents and tourists. However, living in a coastal area requires certain regulations to ensure the safety and protection of residents, which includes fence requirements.
The city of Tiburon has specific regulations and requirements for fences to maintain the serenity and charm of this coastal gem. Below are some of the regulations and frequently asked questions about fence requirements in Tiburon.
Height Requirements:
Fences in Tiburon cannot exceed six feet high, except for certain specific areas of the city, such as waterfront and sports-related facilities. In such areas, the maximum height limit is eight feet. If you are unsure about the specific regulations in your area, it is advisable to contact the Tiburon Planning Department for clarification.
Permits:
Any fence work that involves construction or modification beyond repairs requires a permit from the Tiburon Planning Department. The permit fee is relative to the work required and the type of fence, and it is based on the cost of the project. A permit is not required for minor repairs of an existing fence, like fixing a board or replacing a hinge.
Materials:
Tiburon allows various types of fence materials, including wood, vinyl, metal, masonry, and concrete, provided that they adhere to the height and visibility requirements. Metal fences must have a corrosion-resistant finish, and fencing as a whole must be visually attractive, in line with the surrounding area’s aesthetic.
Visibility Requirements:
Tiburon has specific regulations regarding the visibility of fences to ensure that they do not obstruct views, both within properties and to the surrounding natural beauty of Tiburon. In cases where a street-facing fence is placed within the front setback zone, no solid fence section should be more than four feet high. Instead, you may use an open grill or an attractive railing that allows people to see through the fence.
Boundary Lines:
Tiburon requires that fence lines remain within the property boundary lines to avoid infringing on your neighbor’s property. Although it is advisable to have a survey of the property line to be more certain, fence lines should not cross the paths of drainage channels or any other city property, including sidewalks.
Obstructions:
Fences cannot include any letters, advertisements, or other objects that may distract the public, and they must be maintained in good condition. Additionally, fences constructed on public property, including sidewalks, are not allowed.
Fencing in Tiburon offers benefits beyond privacy and security. It enhances the aesthetics of your property, keeping it in line with the beauty of the city. It also helps define boundaries, reduces noise, and provides security for pets and children. Whether you are installing a new fence or renovating the existing one, you must adhere to the regulations to avoid fines and legal issues.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is the maximum height limit for fences in Tiburon?
A: Fences in Tiburon cannot exceed six feet high. However, specific areas of the city, such as waterfront or sports-related facilities, have a maximum height limit of eight feet.
Q: Do I need a permit to build a fence in Tiburon?
A: Any fence work that involves construction or modification beyond repairs requires a permit from the Tiburon Planning Department. The permit fee is relative to the work required and the type of fence, based on the cost of the project.
Q: What fence materials are allowed in Tiburon?
A: Tiburon allows various types of fence materials, including wood, vinyl, metal, masonry, and concrete, provided that they adhere to the height and visibility requirements.
Q: Can I place my fence anywhere on my property?
A: Fences must remain within the property boundary lines to avoid infringing on your neighbor’s property. Fence lines should not cross the paths of drainage channels or any other city property, including sidewalks.
Q: Are there any restrictions regarding fence visibility?
A: Tiburon has specific regulations regarding the visibility of fences. In cases where a street-facing fence is placed within the front setback zone, solid fence sections should not be more than four feet high. Instead, you may use an open grill or an attractive railing that allows people to see through the fence.
Living in Tiburon offers serene beauty and scenic views, but it also comes with specific regulations for fence requirements. The city has established these regulations to maintain the beauty of the area while ensuring the safety and protection of the residents. Adhering to these regulations ensures that you enjoy a safe, serene, and beautiful environment in Tiburon. If you have any queries, you may contact the Tiburon Planning Department to clarify.
