How Tall Can a Residential Fence Be? Understanding Height Regulations

Fences serve a vital role in residential neighborhoods by making property lines clear. Having the right type of fence also protects your pets and young children from running off your property, and you may use fencing to add a touch of privacy to your home. In Santee and surrounding communities, you’ll find several regulations impact how tall you can build a fence. Understanding the general recommendations for fence heights and what affects how tall you can build one helps you make plans for enhancing your property with a clear boundary.

Understand the Reason for Fence Regulations

At first glance, it might seem like you should be able to build a fence as tall as you’d like on your property. But there are some solid reasons different municipalities place restrictions on fences of a certain height. For instance, a city may regulate the height of residential fences to maintain openness along the front and sides of yards for safety purposes. Keeping fences below a certain height also ensures the nearby properties have the proper amount of light and airflow the owners could expect.

Know the Height Differences for Front & Backyard Fences

You’ll find the fence can be slightly higher in the backyard, since the regulations are designed to allow for more visibility from the front of your house. In Santee, the maximum height for a general front yard fence is 42 inches. In the backyard, the maximum height is 72 inches. Keep in mind these heights are meant for smaller residential properties less than an acre in size.

Plan How to Build a Shared Fence

The state and city also include regulations regarding how tall you must build a shared fence. On top of being expected to share the cost with your neighbor, these fences must be at least five feet tall and free of small gaps. With metal fencing panels, Santee homeowners are able to provide a safer place for small children and pets to play without running onto adjacent properties. Since planning a shared fence also involves some negotiation, you’ll find the process works best when you work with a neutral fencing installer.

Work with an Experienced Fence Installation Professional

Although some fence types might seem fairly simple to install, the truth is there’s more that goes into an installation than most people realize. For example, your community may require permits for specific fences depending on their size, material type, and location. There can also be some gray areas regarding fencing heights, such as a special allowance for fences to go slightly above the typical standard height. Working with a fencing professional helps you identify any loopholes or special circumstances that apply to your residence’s location and plans. Making sure you follow the regulations exactly prevents unnecessary and costly tear-outs or adjustments to the fence once it’s in place.

Fred’s Fencing has been providing Santee with top-quality fencing since 1984. With more than 50 years of experience, we offer a wide selection of vinyl, wood, chain link, and iron fences Santee businesses and homeowners trust to enhance the style and security of their residential, commercial, and industrial properties. We specialize in manufacturing decorative fences and gates for various purposes, such as pool, backyard, and dog fencing. To learn more about our high-quality craftsmanship, contact us today.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published.

×