Knowledge Builders

what is the legal height for a privacy fence

by Lavern Shields I Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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6 feet

Full Answer

What is the standard height of a privacy fence?

Most communities regulate fences to some degree.The standard height for a wood fence is 6 feet for a privacy fence, and 4 feet for a decorative one. But there is considerable variation between communities, and within communities, especially for wood privacy fences.

How high should your privacy fence be?

Fence heights vary depending on the purpose of the fence - this tall fence, between 7 and 8 feet, provides privacy. Falling Waters in San Diego, CA. There is no set standard for residential fence height. However, each city has its own fence height regulations that you must adhere to. Common heights for front yard fences are around 3 feet, while ...

Can you raise height of fence for privacy?

Your fence may keep your pets and possessions on your side of the property line, but it may not provide much privacy. One way to increase privacy is to erect a new, taller fence, but that approach costs a pretty penny. Instead of starting over with a new fence, you can extend your existing fence's height in a couple of ways.

What is the maximum height for a residential fence?

What is the maximum height for a residential fence? Any fence with in 25 ft. of the right of way (front setback) must not exceed a maximum height of 4 ft. Fences in the rear and side yard are permitted to be a maximum height of 8 ft.

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What Are the Main Types of Fences Out There ?

First, you must know which are the main fence types out there. That way, you’re aware of the options in the market. Not only that, but you’ll also know the main differences between each. As a result, you’ll be aware of the reason why each type has different heights.

How Tall Is a Privacy Fence ?

So, how tall is a privacy fence? Usually, these features are available in various heights for a reason: different fence sizes serve distinct objectives. Nevertheless, the height of fences typically ranges from 3 feet to 6 feet for most residential areas.

Choosing the Right Fence Height

The ideal fence height can be between 3 and 6 feet, but some factors make your project the perfect one.

How high is a privacy fence?

Most local jurisdictions impose height limitations on fences which are generally capped at 6ft in residential areas. A privacy fence is normally 8 – 9 ft high, so you may need to seek a permit before replacing a standard fence with a privacy fence.

How high should a fence be?

The law in most areas is clear with regards to fence heights: one doesn’t need a permit in order to install a fence that is under 4 feet — if it is a front fence — or under 6 feet if it is a rear fence . It is also consistent with regards to exceptions to this rule. It requires a person to get a permit before putting up a fence if:

Can I put up a 6ft. fence in my front garden?

Yes, you can put a 6ft. fence in your front garden if you get a permit to do so. This is because most local authorities and HOAs only allow for the installation of front garden fences that are less than 4 feet high. Therefore, anyone wanting to put up a taller fence has to go through the building permit application process.

Why are privacy fences so effective?

Privacy fences are a great way to block unsightly views, insulate from sound, and are effective at containing pets. And the taller the fence, the more effective it is at achieving these goals.

Why are corner lot fences so high?

A high fence in such an area will impede the visibility of drivers. Pedestrians who use the road or street at these points will also have a harder time seeing traffic, and this may lead to accidents.

How tall is a front fence?

While height limits vary from one local jurisdiction to the next, a front fence height limit of 1.2m (about 4 feet) and a rear fence height limit of 2m (about 6 feet) is usually imposed by most local jurisdictions. And if you need to install a fence that is higher than these height limits, you will need to seek permission from the local authority. This usually involves applying for a building permit.

Why are height limits important?

Height limits, especially those that are imposed by HOAs, help to create a semblance of uniformity in a neighborhood. This enhances the aesthetic appeal of an area. It also prevents situations where neighbors install extremely high fences that are meant to annoy their neighbors.

Know the property line

Do you know the exact boundary line of your property? If you are unsure, you can contact your county or title company to get the records. Your local tax assessor’s office or property records department may also have a copy. It is essential that you are certain of your property line before fence installation takes place.

Talk to your neighbor

When a fence repair or installation is needed, notify your neighbor, if you have one. Discuss what kind of fence you are considering, or if a repair is needed, explain that in detail. Invite your neighbor into the conversation so they can be included in the process.

Know the rules

Ensure you know what laws are in place in regard to height. Oftentimes, permits are required from your local city or county to build a fence. For example, in the city of Portland, if you are building a residential fence seven feet or less in height, no permit is required.

Experienced Professionals

For 100 years and several generations, Pacific Fence and Wire has been building privacy fences for the home, security perimeters around businesses, and safety barriers around ballfields and parks. From traditional chain link and cedar fences to highly decorative vinyl and wrought iron fences, there’s no style of fencing we aren’t familiar with.

Why do you need a privacy fence?

Maybe there are neighbors who can peer into your yard, so you need your privacy fence to keep people’s wandering eyes away. Maybe your fence is needed to surround a pool you have installed in the yard. Sometimes, a fence can be used to keep pets, such as dogs, from getting distracted by cars that pass by.

Where is Hercules Fence located?

Our staff is ready to serve you from Maryland and the Washington Metropolitan area. Our branch offices are in Manassas, Richmond, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia, and Maryland.

Is it better to get privacy fencing or taller?

Many customers think that it’s always best to get the tallest privacy fencing they can possibly get. However, as we mentioned earlier, you should think about what purpose your fence will serve. Not all fences need to be as tall as possible to serve their role, and taller fences may even be counterproductive to your goals, depending on the fence’s roles.

How tall is a privacy fence?

Privacy fences are usually between 6 and 8 feet tall. Fence height is also important if you are seeking to contain dogs. The larger your dog is the higher your fence will need to be to prevent him or her from jumping over and escaping.

How tall should a deer fence be?

If you're concerned with keeping deer out of your yard or garden, opt for a 7 foot tall fence.

How tall is a fence in San Diego?

Fence Height. Fence heights vary depending on the purpose of the fence - this tall fence, between 7 and 8 feet, provides privacy. Falling Waters in San Diego, CA. There is no set standard for residential fence height. However, each city has its own fence height regulations that you must adhere to.

How tall should a fence be?

Depending on your needs, wants, and can-dos, you may choose a short 3-foot picket fence or an 8-foot fortress of privacy. The placement of your fence, such as your front yard or backyard, can affect the height of your ideal fence. Unfortunately, local regulations may dictate height for you and limit your options. That’s often the first concern for homeowners, but it’s not the only reason to think about height. Here are some considerations when deciding on the perfect fence height for your yard.

How tall should a fence be for a front yard?

In this case, your fence can obviously be any height. Most people choose shorter, 3-foot picket fences for the front yard. You can do the same for the backyard, but keep in mind how a shorter fence may look in your backyard, as well as the resale value of your home – the next property owner may be looking for privacy, gardening space, or a dog fence!

Why are front yard fences smaller?

One reason front yard fences are smaller is because taller fences can block the sightlines of cars, creating blind corners at intersections and putting children and pets in danger. Depending on your location, you may be able to build an open fence (such as an aluminum fence) higher because it allows for visibility.

Why do we need fences in our garden?

Fences to Protect Your Garden. If you are walling off your garden you are probably looking for a fence that will help keep animals – and trampling feet – away from your plants, while still accentuating the look of flowers, vegetables, and herbs. If deer and large mammals are not a concern for you, a shorter fence can help delineate your garden ...

What is the best fence for privacy?

If you are searching for privacy and don’t want your neighbors to be able to see into your yard, you’ll probably want a fence as high as possible. A six foot fence made out of solid wood or vinyl panels, rather than widely spaced pickets, will give you the most privacy in your backyard.

How long should a fence be for a dog?

Some small dogs or dogs that cannot jump will do fine with shorter fences, but in general, a 6-foot fence is appropriate for containing your dog – and making sure other animals don’t get into your yard to terrorize your pets.

What are HOA restrictions?

HOA-Imposed Fence Restrictions. Your homeowner’s association (HOA) may have even stricter regulations than your municipality when it comes to things like fence height, color, and material. Check the bylaws of your association prior to starting your project to avoid being fined or asked to remove your fence!

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1.What’s The Best Height For A Privacy Fence?

Url:https://fencesupplyonline.com/blog/whats-the-best-height-for-a-privacy-fence/

16 hours ago  · A high privacy fence may not be the answer. We often get customers looking for the highest privacy fence, which is around eight feet tall. When we ask them what they are …

2.How Tall Is a Privacy Fence? Guide to the Right Fence …

Url:https://djfences.com/how-tall-is-privacy-fence/

31 hours ago  · Vinyl Fence Height Average – 4 Feet; Wood Fence Height Average – 6 Feet; Chain Link Fence Height Average – 6 Feet; Choosing the Right Fence Height. The ideal fence height …

3.Privacy Fence Height Limit - Laws & Permit Requirements

Url:https://homegardenguides.com/fencing/privacy-fence-height-limit/

18 hours ago Most zoning ordinances in the United States limit the height of fences to six feet. The reason for this height limit is twofold. First, taller fences tend to create visual barriers between properties, …

4.Legal Height For Fence - Pacific Fence & Wire Co.

Url:https://www.pacificfence.com/blog/fencing-regulations/legal-height-for-fence/

15 hours ago 9 rows · While there’s no set residential fence height, most cities limit fences to six feet in ...

5.Determining the Ideal Height for Your Privacy Fence

Url:https://www.herculesfence.com/blog/fencing/determining-the-ideal-height-for-your-privacy-fence/

8 hours ago  · A privacy fence is normally 8 – 9 ft high, so you may need to seek a permit before replacing a standard fence with a privacy fence. And in cases where one fails to comply with …

6.Fence Height: How Tall Should My Fence Be?

Url:https://www.landscapingnetwork.com/fencing/height.html

27 hours ago  · If you need a fence higher than that, you’ll need a building permit and inspection. Another example, in the city of Hillsboro, if you are building fences in a commercial, industrial, …

7.Why Can't You Have Fences Over A Certain Height? - The …

Url:https://www.fenceauthority.com/blog/why-cant-you-have-fences-over-a-certain-height/

8 hours ago  · It can be a tough task trying to decide what height would be ideal for your privacy fence. A lot of factors go into the final decision, and it’s important that you take all factors into …

8.HEIGHTS OF FENCES IN RESIDENTIAL ZONES - LADBS

Url:https://www.ladbs.org/docs/default-source/publications/information-bulletins/zoning-code/heights-of-fences-in-residential-zones-ib-p-zc2002-002.pdf?sfvrsn=14

5 hours ago If your fence is mainly decorative then the height is not a concern. How tall can a privacy fence be? If you desire to add privacy to your yard then your fence will need to be tall enough to block …

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