Do I Need A Permit For A Fence?

That is a good question! In this blog, Superior Fence & Rail of Orlando outlines the answer to the question “do I need a permit for a fence” and the permitting criteria associated with installing a fence to your home or business in the Orlando area.

Do You Need A Building Permit To Build A Fence?

The answer is most likely yes. In most cities and municipalities, you will need a permit. Here at Superior Fence & Rail of Orlando, our goal is to make your new fence experience worry-free and seamless. Proper permitting is always the first step to any new fence installation.

Part of the beauty of choosing SFR to build your new fence is that our team will pull any necessary permits needed to install your fence. This includes any necessary drawings or paperwork you may need to present to your Homeowner’s Association (HOA) to approve your new fence. However, for us to pull the permitting we will need a copy of your property survey.

To obtain the permit, the county or municipality will require a copy of your fence plans and specifications along with a property survey. This is part of the process and is required for all fencing permits. If you do not have a property survey, you must complete one.

According to the City of Orlando, all fences must follow city codes. This is the case even if a permit is not required, as non-compliant fences may incur code enforcement penalties. Additionally, you must ensure your fencing project is approved by your Homeowners Association (HOA) if applicable.

Superior Fence & Rail has created this informative video about fence permitting:

How Do I Know If I Need A Permit For My Fence?

Superior Fence & Rail of Orlando will help you every step of the way during your fence project. From the planning stages all the way through the installation. We are well-versed in knowing all the criteria for determining if your project requires a permit and obtaining all the necessary documentation to make your permitting process hassle-free. Here is a list of factors that will mean your fence will need a permit:

If the fence is on a commercial or residential property with three or more dwelling units.
If the fence is taller than six feet.
If the fence requires concrete, masonry, block, posts, or any reinforcement (concrete/rebar).
If the fence will be used as a required pool/spa barrier.
If the fence is along a property with an alley in the rear.
If the fence is on a property that is on a corner lot.
If the fence is on or near any public easement as depicted on a property survey.
If the fence includes vehicular or powered (electric, solar, etc) gates.
If the fence is part of a demolition permit or the demolition of a structure on the property.
If the fence is part of FBC Chapter 33 Safeguards During Construction – Florida Building Code.
If the fence is in a floodplain or a floodway (Check if your property is located in one of these areas.)

Do I Need A Permit For A Replacement Fence?

Permits may not be necessary for fence replacement if the replacement fence will be installed using the same style and footprint as the old fence. However, if the style or height of the fence changes, you may need a permit or approval from your Homeowner’s Association (HOA) to ensure the replacement fence falls within the city codes and approved criteria.

Other Considerations When Installing Your New Fence

If your new fence is installed within a historic district or your property is a designated historic landmark, it will require a Certificate of Appropriateness. This will be required before installing a new fence or replacing parts of an existing one. According to the City of Orlando, plastic or vinyl fences are prohibited in historic districts.

Ready To Get Started?

If you are searching for a high-quality fence company in the Orlando area, contact Superior Fence & Rail, your trusted Orlando fence company for over two decades. Rest assured that not only will your fence be constructed of the highest quality materials, but your fence installation will experience will be professional and worry-free.