Fence Codes, Ordinances and Permits for Missouri City, TX
Missouri City, a suburban community just southwest of Houston, has a population of about 75,000. Located in Fort Bend County, it is a popular place to live for people who work in Houston and is a family-oriented city. Parks and recreation facility reflect this orientation and make the community a pleasant home for its upscale residents. Like many Texas cities, fence regulations in Missouri City are simple and uncomplicated, which encourages homeowners to add these additions to their properties without any unusual requirements or limitations. City ordinances and codes take it for granted that residents will exercise good judgment in their planning, and no building permit is required for most projects.
Missouri City, like most suburban communities, is also home to many master-planned subdivisions and developments. Governed by homeowners’ associations, these neighborhoods often have deed covenants and restrictions that have detailed requirements for all home improvements, including fences. If you make your home in one of these HOA-governed areas, you’ll need to check your HOA documents for rules and follow those design and construction limitations for any installation. Local fence contractors are familiar with the rules in such neighborhoods, and can help you with material and design choices, as well as with professional installation.
General Requirements for Residential Fences
- Building Permit Required? – Permits are only required for masonry fences over 6′ high.
- Permit Documentation Needed – If permit is required, consult the building authority.
- Fence Materials Allowed – All typical residential fence materials are permitted, including wood, PVC vinyl, ornamental metal and chain link.
- Maximum Height Limits – 8′ maximum height limit.
- Property Line Issues – Fences may be built on property lines, but best practice is to build on the owner’s side of the fence. The finished side of fence must face outwards.
- Inspections Needed – If a permit is required, a final inspection is required on completion.
- Building Authority Contact – 281-403-8661
- Building Department Website
Specific Rules and Restrictions
- Front Yard Fences – Only wrought iron or metal ornamental open fences are allowed in front yards.
- Side Yard Fences – 8′ height maximum.
- Back Yard Fences – 8′ maximum height.
- Corner Lot Restrictions – At all intersections, visibility must meet city standards. Sightline triangle dimensions are not specified.
- Other Restrictions
- Barbed wire fences are not allowed on residential lots, except to control livestock.
- Homeowners’ Association Restrictions – Many master-planned developments and subdivisions exist in Missouri City. Their homeowners’ association deed covenants and restrictions must be observed for all fence projects. Consult with your HOA office for details on fence design requirements.
- Commercial Fence Requirements – Commercial fence rules depend on zoning and business type. Before planning any project, consult with the Missouri City Development Services Permit and Inspection Division.
Building Residential Fence Projects That Enhance Your Property – Missouri City, TX
The Missouri City Development Services Department understands that homeowners in this gracious suburban city take considerable pride in their homes and properties. That’s why city government exerts a minimum of control over home improvement projects within the city limits. When planning a new property enclosure for your home, take the architectural details of the house, your neighboring properties and other neighborhood fences into consideration when planning the design of your installation. A fence that fits into the neighborhood is the best way to enhance your property value and ensures that your neighbors will approve of your plans. If an HOA governs your home, its design restrictions and rules are in place for just that purpose, as well. Since fence construction is a complicated job, requiring many different skills, wise homeowners usually hire a fence company to get the job done right. Get more than one free cost estimate from local contractors and check out finished projects by any company you’re thinking of hiring for the job.