For commercial, industrial, and multifamily properties
For other properties, see Start Your Project
Updated: 04/12/2026

Referenced Codes
California Building Code 105.2
San José Municipal Code, Chapter 20.30, Part 6 and 17.24 - fences
San José Municipal Code, Chapter 20.30, Part 5 - retaining walls

On multifamily, commercial or industrial properties, constructing a fence or retaining wall requires:

• A development permit or permit adjustment from Planning; and
• A building permit; and
• If a retaining wall, a Public Works grading permit is also required if:
  • Height is greater than 4’-0” as measured from top of the wall to the bottom of footing; and/or
  • The wall at any height supports a surcharge. A surcharge is a pressure from earth/fill acting upon the retaining wall with a back slope of 3:1 or greater (3’ horizontal to 1’ vertical)

DEFINITIONS

A fence is a barrier, railing, or upright structure that marks a boundary and controls access. It is typically constructed of wood, chain link, wrought iron, decorative steel, masonry, concrete or other similar types of materials. Barbed wire or other harmful materials are not allowed.

A retaining wall is a structure that holds or retains soil behind it. It may be constructed of wood, masonry, concrete, metal, or other material. 

Permit Process 

Design Considerations

Important: Read the common Design Considerations before you create any plans or start a project. These can affect the design, location, and permitting of the project.

Get Ready to Apply

Who can apply? We recommend that the applicant be a licensed contractor. See Who Can Apply for a Building Permit for others who may apply. Whoever signs the building permit application is responsible and potentially liable for all activity under the permit. See Owner-Builders Beware!

SJPermits can help. At SJPermits.org, you can pay fees, schedule inspections, check the status of a permit, and find permit records and property information. An SJPermits account is required only if you are applying for an online permit or for projects that require Standard Plan Review. 

Prepare the Permit Application Package

Who can prepare plans? While some plans may be prepared by anyone, we recommend working with professionals. Inaccurate plans will require resubmittals and more fees. Accurate plans save time and money. See Plans That Require an Architect or Engineer.

Forms may require digital signatures. See Digital Forms & Signatures for help.

REQUIRED

> Building Permit Application - See instructions.

> As appropriate to the type of property, include:
- Multifamily Projects Submittal Checklist
- Commercial & Industrial Projects Submittal Checklist

> Create plans following the instructions of the Plan Review Submittal Package - Commercial, Industrial, Multifamily. Include:

IF APPLICABLE

> Planning clearance for properties listed on the City’s Historic Resources Inventory - For assistance, Submit a Help Ticket to Planning or speak with a City planner.

> Owner-Builder Acknowledgement and Verification of Information Form - Submit if the property owner is the permit applicant.

> This project may be subject to a refundable Construction and Demolition Diversion Deposit (CDDD).

How to Apply

Use the Standard Plan Review Service.

Inspections

You will be issued a Permit Card that lists required inspections. Schedule inspections at SJPermits.org or call 408-535-3555 for assistance.

Be ready — read Inspection Success.