Driveway fences can provide an extra degree of privacy to homeowners. You might have the right to put in a fence, even if your property didn’t come with you to separate your driveway in that of your neighbors. Before undertaking such a job, you should contact the local code enforcement office to ensure you follow all applicable local regulations. There are a number of rules that homeowners must follow before trying to set up a new fence.

How Tall to Build

Fence height is a significant concern along your drive. A tall fence creates hazards for motorists and pedestrians. In many municipalities, a fence must be lower the closer it is to a public street. A low fence is not as likely to block a driver’s view of the street and also of oncoming traffic and pedestrians when the motorist is pulling or backing out of their drive. The maximum height for fences in front of a home is 3 feet in many places.

Acceptable Fence Materials

Whether you intend on using traditional two-by-four planks or fiberglass fencing, then check with your zoning office to guarantee code compliance. Most communities using a homeowner’s association have strict rules for fencing materials. In some locations, specific fencing materials are outright banned while some are restricted depending on where you intend to utilize them. Examples of banned materials for fencing in some residential areas include cinder block and barbed wire fences.

Finding Your Fence

Municipalities can regulate the installation of family fencing. You may get in trouble with local zoning officials for fences too close to the street, too far from the home or too close to your drive. In case you have any doubts about the legality of the proposed fence location, consult your local zoning office to be certain you follow all applicable zoning laws.

Obtaining Fence Lets

Whether or not you need a building permit is dependent on your city and county’s regulations. If you do need a license, submit information to the local zoning department that details your property line, the place of the fence you intend to construct and what materials you intend on using. A license normally requires the applicant to swear possession of their property and also to disclose accessible employee’s compensation insurance. The price of the license is dependent upon a number of factors, including whether or not zoning officials must review your plans.