Fence Codes and Ordinances for Pasadena, TX

With a population of almost 150,000, Pasadena is located just southeast of Houston, and inside the highway loop surrounding the city. With more than 47,000 individual housing units, it’s home to a family-oriented population. As in most cities, Pasadena residents take extraordinary pride in their homes and invest in attractive home improvements, including fences to add value and personality to their properties. Pasadena has simple, common-sense regulations for residential fence projects, all of which require an affordable building permit before construction. DIY fence building is popular in the city, which also has many building contractors who specialize in these projects.

Many subdivisions also exist in Pasadena, with many properties having HOA deed covenants and restrictions. In those developments, rules for yard enclosures may differ from the simple rules enforced by the city. If you’re not sure whether your home is in one of those subdivisions, you can check your deed or consult with the Pasadena Planning Department before planning. Check with your HOA office if there are such covenants or restrictions before planning a project. You may also have to submit your plans to the homeowners’ association for approval, as well. Most Pasadena area contractors are familiar with the rules of various subdivisions, as well, and can show you designs that are compatible with yours.

General Requirements for Residential Fences

• Building Permit Required? – A permit is required for all fence installations. The fee is $20 per each 500′ of installed fence.
• Permit Documentation Needed – Site plan drawing to scale, showing the location, a description, and a complete legal description of the property.
• Fence Materials Allowed – Wood, metal ornamental, chain link, etc. Barbed wire is permitted only where livestock must be controlled.

• Maximum Height Limits – 7′, except where restricted by HOA restrictions.
• Property Line Issues – No restrictions are listed in ordinances. HOA restrictions may apply.
• Inspections Needed – A final inspection on completion may be required.
• Building Authority Contact – 713-475-5543
• Building Department Website

Specific Rules and Restrictions

• Front Yard Fences – Limited to 4′ high and of open construction.
• Side Yard Fences – 7′ height limit.
• Back Yard Fences – 7′ height limit.
• Corner Lot Restrictions – No specific restrictions in city ordinance.
• Other Restrictions
  • No electrified fences are allowed within the city limits
• Homeowners’ Association Issues – Properties governed by a subdivision HOA are subject to the deed covenants and restrictions of that HOA. Property owners should consult their HOA office for details and documentation.

• Commercial Fence Requirements – Commercial fence projects have their own rules and restrictions. Contact the city’s Planning Department before planning construction.
• Maximum Height Information – 9′ height limit. Fences over 7′ high require an engineered drawing showing design for 90 MPH wind loads. For other commercial regulations, contact the Pasadena Planning Department.
• Security Fence Rules – Razor and barbed wire may be used on top of commercial fences with a 6′ minimum height.

Planning a Residential Fence Project for Your Home in Pasadena, Texas

Pasadena has a set of basic, easy-to-follow codes for fences. You can choose from a wide range of materials and designs that match your ideas and the look of your unique property. There are many fence companies and contractors in Pasadena and Houston who will be happy to visit your home and show you options and provide price quotes for the project you select with no obligation on your part. If you decide to do a DIY installation, materials are available from home supply outlets. You’ll find many helpful pages on this website that can help you get started with your planning.