Houston Fence Building Codes

Fence Regulations and Codes for Houston, TX

With a popular of 2.3 million, Houston is the largest city in Texas and is one of America’s major population centers. Diverse in population and with a wide variety of residential and commercial properties, it forms the central urban area of the Greater Houston metroplex. If you make your home in here and live in a single-family home, building an attractive fence can be a wonderful addition to your lifestyle. Providing security, privacy and protection for your family, fences are among the most popular of home improvements. Whether you build your own project or hire an installer, you need information on rules, permits, codes, ordinances and regulations before getting started. You’ll find essential information on those below.

Unlike many cities and other communities, Houston makes it easy to build fences in residential areas and has a minimum of exacting rules. No building permit is required for typical residential fences less than 8′ tall. That simplicity, however may be deceptive. There are still plenty of rules about where you can build your fence and restrictions that may apply. For homeowners in developments with homeowners’ associations, the rules of that development may place strict limits on your options, as well. It’s always best to contact the Houston Planning and Development Department or your HOA office at the planning stage. You’ll find contact information on this page.

General Requirements for Residential Fences

Specific Rules and Restrictions

Other City Fence Ordinances and Limitations

Commercial Fence Requirements – Fences for commercial properties have different requirements than for residential properties. Before planning, consult the Houston Planning and Development Department.

Building Fences for Residential Properties – City of Houston, TX

One of the best ways to begin planning is to look at fences installed on your neighbors’ properties. Even though building permits are not required for most projects in Houston, you may have unexpected restrictions on what you can do. It’s always advisable to follow neighborhood standards for such construction. Most residents choose to hire one of the professional installers in the city. They understand the specific rules that may apply to properties where you live and can help you ensure that your project fits into those standards. You’ll get ideas on materials, along with a price quote for a range of options from the company you choose. If you decide to make it a DIY project, materials are readily available at local building supply outlets.