Fence Permit and Planning Permission
In most cases, you will need a permit to put a fence around your yard. Requirements for obtaining a permit vary depending on your local jurisdiction. Many cities have height restrictions that limit the size of the fence you can build. The size of the fence will determine what kind of permit you need.
It is important to have a good idea of where the property lines are located to ensure all work done is inside the property owner’s lines, preventing disputes down the line. For properties listed buildings, you will also need to apply for planning permission before you can legally put up a fence. Relevant zoning regulations must be checked to ensure it is legal to build a fence on the property, and adhere to regulations regarding height limits and materials.
Because laws differ in each state and city, it’s best to consult with a licensed fence company or check rules in your county to determine if a permit is needed. Previous owners may have installed a fence without taking necessary steps.
Below are additional things to consider when trying to figure out fencing requirements:
- Most municipalities enforce zoning laws regulating fence height, materials, and style.
- You can apply for a fence permit at your local building office.
- If you install a fence without a permit, you risk being asked to remove it.
Fence Guidelines and Local Laws
Do I need planning permission to put a fence around my property?
- If your fence height is higher than 1 metre (3.28ft) and you live next to a highway used by vehicles or the pedestrian footpath of such highway, then you need planning permission.
How close to the property line can I build a fence?
- Typically, fences are installed anywhere from 2 to 8 inches from a property line in most areas.
Fence Laws In California: A Quick Overview
- Under California’s Building Code, you must obtain a permit before building a fence that will be over 6 feet tall unless the top 2 feet of the fence will be barbed wire.
- For a front yard fence, the maximum height is 42 inches.
- In the UK, the norm is that fencing in your back garden should be a maximum height of 2 metres (about 6.5 feet) and the front garden of your property should be 1 metre (3.2 feet).
- When looking at the plans, if it’s within their property boundary, your neighbour has every right to do what they want, including installing a fence.
Permit Regulations in Different States
Do you need a permit for a fence in NY?
- Most towns require permits for renovations that alter fences. So you likely need a permit even if replacing a fence.
In Georgia, fence regulations vary by city and county. Some require permits, others don’t. However, follow local codes when building a fence, permit or not.
In NSW, residential fences usually shouldn’t exceed 1.8m. Factors may require a planning permit.
What projects in NY don’t require permits?
- Small grading, planting, repaving, and pre-engineered bleachers without foundations.
- In lower density areas, front, rear or side yard fences can be maximum 4 feet high, or 6 feet if built before 2008.
In Brookhaven, backyard privacy fences often don’t need permits unless over 6 feet. Front yard fences over 3.5 feet usually do.
In Los Angeles, backyard and side fences can be 8 feet on non-hillside properties. Front yard fences need permits.