Permit Required? Sometimes Required
Typical Fee Range $50–$300 A Building Permit is only required for fences over 6 feet tall; however, a Zoning/Fence Certificate may be required for any street-adjacent fence.
Fee Method Valuation-based
Apply Online Apply at Mecklenburg County Code Enforcement →

What's Required in Charlotte

  • Building permit required for any fence or wall over 6 feet in height
  • Front yard height limit is 5 feet above grade (6 feet for zero lot line subdivisions)
  • Rear yard height limit is 8 feet above grade
  • Fence post capitals may extend up to 2 feet above max height limits
  • Vision clearance standards apply at street intersections: no obstructions over 2.5 feet tall within the sight triangle
  • A Fence and Wall Certificate from CDOT is required if the fence is along street borders

How to Get a Fence Permit in Charlotte

1

Step 1: Zoning Check

Verify your property line setbacks and historic district status with the City of Charlotte Planning Dept.

2

Step 2: CDOT Certificate

Apply for a Fence and Wall Certificate if your project is street-adjacent.

3

Step 3: County Application

If over 6 feet, submit a building permit application through the Mecklenburg County Citizen Access portal.

4

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay the minimum building permit fee ($59.70) or valuation-based fee ($12.19 per $1k over $3k).

5

Step 5: Final Inspection

Schedule a final inspection once the fence is complete to verify height and setbacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

A building permit is only required if the fence is over 6 feet tall, though zoning rules apply to all fences.
The base permit fee for small residential projects is $59.70.
Up to 5 feet in front yards and 8 feet in rear yards.