Blog Post:
BY Liberty Fence Co.
It’s exciting to think about adding a fence to your home. A new fence can boost your curb appeal, give your kids or pets a safe spot to play, or just offer a little peace and quiet. Whatever your reason, getting a great wooden fence, vinyl fence, or chain link fence starts with knowing the rules. We get it. Dealing with fence laws & permits can feel like a headache. Nobody wants to build a beautiful backyard fence only to find out they have to take it down. That is why we put together this simple guide. We want to help homeowners like you understand the local residential fence rules so your installation goes smoothly. At
Liberty Fence & Deck Co., we live and work right here in Cass County. We know the municipal regulations well. Think of us as your friendly guides to the property fencing laws. Let’s jump in and make this easy.
Do You Need a Fence Permit in Fargo?
This is the first question everyone asks. It is a good one. For most standard residential fencing projects in Fargo, the great news is you generally do not need a building permit. The City of Fargo has made the process simpler for homeowners. However, there are a few important exceptions where a city permit is required. It is always smart to check with the local zoning office, but here are the main situations that will require a permit:
• Taller Fences: If your fence is going to be over 6.5 feet high.
• Commercial Projects: Any commercial fencing will need proper construction rules approval.
• Non-Standard Projects: Anything very unusual or complex may need a quick check-in.
If your fence needs a permit, the process involves a visit to the Fargo City Hall or using their online license and permit portal. They will check your plans against the building code and local ordinances. We handle this for our customers all the time. It is just part of getting your fence installation done right.
The Big Rules: Fence Height Restrictions Fargo
The main thing to keep track of is height. Fence height restrictions are pretty clear, but they change based on where the fence sits on your property. This is a crucial detail for homeowners to get right.
| Fence Location | Maximum Height Allowed | Key Restriction Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Back Yard and Side Yard | 6.5 feet (78 inches) | This covers the main area of your yard behind your house. |
| Front Yard | 3 feet (36 inches) | Maximum height for solid fences (e.g., solid wood or vinyl). |
| Front Yard (Open Fences) | 4 feet (48 inches) | Allowed for fences you can see through easily, like chain link fence or picket fences. |
Remember, these measurements are from the finished grade of the soil.
Where Exactly Can Your Fence Go?
One common mistake we see is people not knowing exactly where their property line is. This is super important because all fences must be built entirely on your land. A few inches can make a huge difference with your neighbor! Here are some helpful rules about placement:
• Locate Your Property Pins: You must know where your actual property line is before you put up any posts. If you are not sure, hiring a surveyor is a small cost that saves big trouble later.
• Mind the Setback: The City of Fargo suggests you set your fence back about two feet from the property line. Why? This lets you take care of both sides of your fence without stepping onto your neighbor’s land. It is a simple courtesy that prevents arguments.
• Corner Lots are Tricky: If you have a corner lot, there are special visibility rules. Fences cannot block the view of drivers or walkers near street intersections. This is a safety rule, so it is taken seriously.
Top Tips for a Smooth Fence Project
Navigating local fence requirements is not hard if you follow a few steps. Here is a simple to-do list:
1. Check with the Zoning Office: Even if you think you don't need a permit, calling the Cass County zoning office is a safe, free step.
2. Talk to Your Neighbors: Being a good neighbor matters. Let them know your plan. They might even have a copy of the official property survey!
3. Call 811 Before You Dig: North Dakota law requires you to call 811 a few days before any digging. They mark buried utility lines. This step keeps you safe and avoids big fines.
4.
Choose a Licensed Pro: A reputable fence contractor already knows the local rules. They ensure your new fence meets every rule, saving you time and worry.
Common Questions About Fargo Fences
Do I need to worry about which side of the fence faces out?
Yes, you do. The "nice side" or finished side of your fence should generally face outward towards your neighbor or a public way. The structural posts should be on your side. It is a common courtesy in Fargo.
If I live near a commercial fencing area, are the rules different?
Maybe. If your residential fencing property is right next to a commercial property, there may be special height or material rules. Always check the official Fargo zoning fence guide in this situation.
Does Liberty Fence & Deck Co. handle the permit process?
Absolutely! We are full-service fence installation experts. We can help prepare and submit any necessary permit applications for you. This takes all the paperwork stress off your shoulders.
Ready to Build Your Dream Fence?
We understand the Fargo fence regulations completely. For homeowners, the process should be exciting, not stressful. You worry about picking out the perfect wooden fence or vinyl fence style. We will handle the rest, from checking local ordinances to a perfect fence installation. We have built hundreds of beautiful, regulation-compliant fences right here in Fargo. We want your next project to be our next big success story. Don’t let the thought of a fence permit keep you from getting the privacy and beauty you deserve.
Click here to contact Liberty Fence & Deck Co. today for a free, no-fuss consultation. Let’s get your fence built the right way!
