PERMITS & REGULATIONS FOR NEW FENCE INSTALLATIONS: AVOIDING THE DANGER ZONE
The setback requirements for fence installations refer to how far the fence must be “set back” from your property boundary.
A professional fence contractor will give you an estimate to determine if your project is within the area’s setback guidelines. Local fence contractors will assist you with the survey process and point you in the right direction. Usually there are some rules as far as where a fence can be build when close to an intersection or road.
Your fence specialist and the city/countyaEUR(tm’s zoning office can help you decide where your fence should go.
Different laws apply to different locations. You should ensure that you are familiar with the rules applicable to your situation.
It is best to have your survey done. Then, visit the zoning department to find out where your fence can be placed. Next, choose from the range of fence options to meet your needs.
Although a permit is not required for fences less than six feet in height, almost all fences must comply with the setback regulations. This is Fairfax County Virginia.
Richmond Fence Regulations
The height of your fence will determine whether you require approval depending on where you live. A city inspector measures fences from the base of fence posts to their top. You don’t need a building permit if your fence is shorter than six feet in height.
Let’s imagine that some residents in your neighborhood want to build a school or a baseball park, open an auto repair shop in their garage, or that a company wants to transform the gas station into a McDonald’s. The area’s need is the basis for an official determination. You, as the property owner, should feel confident that the zoning has been tailored to your community’s vision and needs.
Is it really necessary to do all this?
Although it may seem like an overwhelming task, properly installed fence projects are worth the effort in terms of curb appeal, property value, and cost of repairs. Choose a fencing contractor who is experienced in installing, accreditations and website design. Look at their reviews on Angie’s List and other referrals. This will help you to keep your neighborhood’s character intact. These regulations are in place to preserve your locality and protect the property’s value. Changes are not allowed or only permitted with severe restrictions.
These property and fence regulations are necessary for our safety.
The zoning ordinance is designed to protect the community’s general welfare and provide assurances that the area will be stable. Therefore, zoning applicants must show that their future location is compatible with the best use possible of the area and will not have a negative effect on the public welfare.
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Fence regulations vary from community to community. In Richmond, Virginia, a city ordinance defines a fence as “an unroofed enclosing structure, barrier, or retaining wall.” When a city has different regulations for fences, they may vary in where they are regulated within the zoning ordinance. In many cases, a fence is regulated as an encroachment rather than a structure.
Fence design regulations
Fences can be made of metal, wood, polyvinylchloride (PVC), or masonry, as well as other permanent materials. A fence or wall may only contain two related fencing materials.
Barbed wire, razor wire, and woven wire mesh are not permitted to be used in fence construction. Electricity is not permitted for fences.
Wood fences must be stained or painted, except when made from the heartwood of a species that is resistant to decay such as cedar or redwood. All ferrous metal fences, except hot-dipped galvanized iron, shall be painted using a three-coat process consisting of a corrosion-resistant primer and two final coats. Richmond Zoning Ordinance 15.04.810.038
Where to learn more
In order to be the best educated you should check out the local laws and ordinance rules. These can vary by county and city. The Richmond Municipal Code and the Richmond Zoning Ordinance regulate fences and fencing.