Austin, Texas is a great place to live, our favorite, but if you’re looking to build a fence around your property, you should know the rules. This article will provide you with all the information you need to know about Austin’s fence laws to make sure your fence is up to code. Read on for an in-depth look at what kind of fences are allowed and how high they can be!
Introduction to Austin Fence Laws
The Austin fence laws are designed to protect both property owners and their neighbors. The city code has several regulations that control how you put up your fence, and requires that all fences be built according to certain standards, such as having a solid foundation and being properly supported. You’ll also need to have your fence inspected and approved by the city before you can install it.
The fence laws in Austin allow for fences up to 6 feet tall. However, if a fence is going to be located near a roadway or public right-of-way, it can’t be higher than 4 feet. However, if you have a swimming pool on your property, your fence must be at least 4 feet high.
A property owner does have some other things to keep in mind when building a fence in Austin, TX. For example, if your fence is going to be electrified, you must get approval from the city of Austin first.
What is the Maximum Fence Height in Austin, TX?
If you’re planning on installing fencing around your property line in Austin, the height of the fence will depend on a few factors, including the purpose of the fence and its location on your property.
Generally speaking, fences in Austin can be up to 6 feet tall. However, if the fence is being installed for security purposes, it can be up to 8 feet tall. Additionally, if the fence is being installed near a pool or other body of water, it can be up to 10 feet tall.
Finally, it’s important to note that there are some exceptions to these general height limits. For example, your fence may need to adhere to special height restrictions if you live in a historic district. Or, if you want to build an ornamental fence as a property owner, you can do so regardless of the construction requirements.
Fencing Regulations in the City of Austin
Before installing a new fence you must be aware of specific regulations. These regulations must be checked with each level of government.
For instance, local codes may address zoning, state laws may control fence permits, and you could even be subject to the appropriate homeowners association (HOA) rules for your particular community.
Working with a professional fence company as a homeowner will enable you to better understand any regulations that are relevant to your fence installation job and whether a building permit is required.
In general, you do not need to apply to the city of Austin for a residential fence permit if your fence is not in a flood zone and won’t be taller than 8 feet. There are a few exceptions to the rules regarding fence height in Austin, TX. For example, you are allowed to build a taller fence if it is located within the required setbacks from your property line. You may also be able to build a taller fence if you have obtained a variance from the city.
However, Austin does have laws limiting certain fence projects.
When Do I Need a Building Permit for My Fence?
Building permits are required for fences that are taller than eight feet. If your fence is not higher than eight feet, you may not need a permit, but it’s always best to check with your local zoning department to be sure.
According to Austin, TX land development ordinance, a solid fence or wall along a property line can be built not exceeding an average height of six feet or seven feet in height maximum. If every person whose property line touches the fence that exceeds the 6-foot limit submits a written approval for the fence, the building officials might approve it for several reasons:
- the slope change is more than two feet within 50 feet of the fence
- if there’s a pool on the property that needs to be fenced in
- if a fence separates a residential yard from a commercial or industrial yard
What Fences Are Best?
While a 6-foot fence made of wood or iron is the most common choice, you might want to go with something else, like a chain link fence. However, if you need privacy from that one nosy neighbor, wood fencing might be the best choice, especially cedar. The cedar privacy fence will most definitely keep your neighbor at bay. Paired with a cedar gate, it’s a definite win.
You could also go for a 6-foot picket fence if you are more traditional, and security and privacy are not an issue.
Should I Hire a Professional Company?
A good fencing company is not only going to answer all your questions, and do the design and the construction of the fence of your choosing, but they will also make sure the fence is up to code. If you want fencing commercial contractors with great reviews, True Built Fencing is a great choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the laws and regulations concerning fences in Austin, TX are quite straightforward. While there are some restrictions on the maximum height of your fence depending on its location, most residential fences can be up to 8 feet tall. It is always a good idea to verify with local authorities before constructing a fence as certain districts may have individual zoning ordinances that need to be taken into account. With this information in hand, you should now have a better understanding of how high your fence can be in Austin, TX.
If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to contact True Built Fencing!