Permit Required? Sometimes Required
Typical Fee Range $40–$150 A flat fee is typically applied and permits are often issued same-day.
Fee Method Flat fee
Apply Online Apply at Shelby County Department of Construction Code Enforcement →

What's Required in Memphis

  • Permit is not typically required for fences under 6 feet tall.
  • Maximum height for residential fences is generally 8 feet.
  • Fences must be constructed of permissible materials allowed by zoning.
  • Must not be placed on sewer or drainage easements.
  • Finished side of the fence should face neighbors or the street.
  • Must comply with sight triangle rules at intersections to ensure visibility.

How Tall Can a Fence Be Without a Permit in Memphis?

In Memphis, the number that matters is 6 feet: a fence taller than that needs a permit from the Shelby County Department of Construction Code Enforcement, while anything at or under it can usually go up without one. Residential fences overall are capped at 8 feet. Even a permit-free fence still has to respect setbacks and corner sight-line rules, so check placement before you dig post holes.

Do You Need a Permit to Build a Fence in Memphis?

For a typical backyard fence at or under 6 feet, no — you can skip the building permit in Memphis. Go taller and you'll file with the Shelby County Department of Construction Code Enforcement, with permit fees typically in the $40–$150 range. Two cautions before you skip the paperwork: zoning rules (height caps, setbacks, corner visibility) apply to every fence, permitted or not, and HOA or deed rules stack on top of city code. When your plan sits close to the line, a quick call to the department beats rebuilding a fence later.

How to Get a Fence Permit in Memphis

1

Step 1: Check Height

Determine if your fence exceeds 6 feet in height.

2

Step 2: Site Plan

Prepare a site plan showing the proposed fence location.

3

Step 3: Online Application

Register and apply through the Memphis Permit Administration portal.

4

Step 4: Fee Payment

Pay the flat application fee online via the portal.

5

Step 5: Approval

Permits are frequently issued the same day for standard fences.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, fences under 6 feet tall typically do not require a permit in Memphis.
Standard residential fences must not exceed 8 feet in height.
No, landscaping and structures like fences cannot be placed on sewer or drainage easements.
On record in Memphis, fences over 6 feet need a permit; at or under 6 feet you generally don't need one, though zoning height caps and setbacks still apply.