Permit Required? Sometimes Required
Typical Fee Range $200–$210 Auxiliary buildings without trades have a $210 inspection fee; small additions start with a $200 application fee.
Fee Method Flat fee
Apply Online Apply at Planning and Development Services →

What's Required in El Paso

  • Permit typically required for fences over 6 feet in the backyard.
  • Front yard fences are often restricted to 3–4 feet maximum.
  • Side yard fences capped at 6 feet from the front building line back.
  • Sight triangles at corner lots restrict fences to 3 feet for visibility.
  • Must be located at least 1 to 3 feet from the sidewalk edge.
  • Pool fences must be at least 48 inches with self-closing gates.

How Tall Can a Fence Be Without a Permit in El Paso?

In El Paso, the number that matters is 6 feet: a fence taller than that needs a permit from the Planning and Development Services, while anything at or under it can usually go up without one. Front yards are stricter, capped at 3–4 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 El Paso?

For a typical backyard fence at or under 6 feet, no — you can skip the building permit in El Paso. Go taller and you'll file with the Planning and Development Services, with permit fees typically in the $200–$210 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 El Paso

1

Step 1: Confirm Height

Check if your fence exceeds the 6-foot permit threshold.

2

Step 2: Plot Setbacks

Ensure the fence is 1-3 feet from sidewalks and respects sight triangles.

3

Step 3: Online Filing

Apply via the El Paso Accela Citizen Access portal.

4

Step 4: Pay Application Fee

Pay the mandatory $200 application fee.

5

Step 5: Inspection

Schedule a final inspection once the fence is installed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most residential areas do not require a permit for fences under 6 feet in the backyard.
Front yard fences are usually limited to 3 or 4 feet.
Yes, pool fences nearly always require a permit and must be at least 48 inches high.
On record in El Paso, 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.