Apply for a Fence Permit

Determine if you need a permit

A fence permit is NOT required if ALL of the items below apply to your fence project:

• Fence is located on a one or two-family residential property.
• Fence is six feet or less in height. (All heights shall be measured from the established normal building site grade.)
• Fence materials are one of the following: wood, plastic/vinyl, chain-link, aluminum, wrought-iron, plant-material.
• Fence complies with Orlando Code Chapter 58 Part 5B(5).

A fence permit IS required if ANY of the items below apply to your fence project:

• Fence is located on a commercial property, including three-unit or more residential properties.
• Fence is more than six feet in height. (All heights shall be measured from the established normal building site grade.)
• Fence materials are one of the following: concrete, masonry or block, including posts or include any reinforcement (concrete/rebar).
• Fence is utilized as a required pool/spa barrier.
• Fence is located on or near any or all public easements as depicted on a property survey.
• Fence includes vehicular gates or powered (electric, solar, etc) gates.
• Fence is associated with a demolition permit or the demolition of a structure on the property.
• Fence is required as part of Chapter 33 Safeguards During Construction – Florida Building Code.
• Fence is located in a floodplain or a floodway (Check if your property is located in one of these areas.)

Plan your project

All fences, even when a permit is not required must follow City Code. You can understand where and how you can build your fence by visiting our Fence Permit Guide and reviewing our Fence Regulations Diagram and Alley Regulations Diagram. Some things to think about when planning a fence include:

• Is your property within a historic district or a designated historic landmark? If yes, you will need a Certificate of Appropriateness prior to installing a new fence or replacing portions of an existing fence. See the Historic Preservation Board website for more information.
• Call 811 for utility locates or visit sunshine811.com.
• Is your property within a mandatory Homeowner’s Association? Many HOAs require approval prior to moving forward with any project. Be sure to check with your HOA before proceeding with your fence project.    
• Is your fence material solid? If so, consider raising your fence panels a minimum of two inches above the ground surface to ensure for the natural flow of water during heavy rains.  
• Is your fence facing the right way? It's customary to build a wood fence so that the finished side faces outward. This gives your neighbors a pleasant view and helps keep the exterior of your house looking great from the road. 
• Do you really know where your property line is? Make sure you are building your fence on your property line or just inside it. Review and understand your survey before you begin the project. 

Apply for a permit

If you require a permit for your project, you will need to apply for a building permit.

Build your fence

If you are not required to get a permit or you have already received your permit, you can now build your fence. 

Schedule an inspection

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