Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/875930
12 • october 2017 • world fence news As part of an ongoing and long-standing series, World Fence News offers this "snapshot" of build- ing ordinances which affect fence installations from municipalities across the United States and Canada, including those in historic districts, which often have their own require- ments. This information was taken from official web sites, but you should always consult the appropriate build- ing departments for specific require- ments. • • • Denver, Colorado Fences should not be constructed in the adjacent property or in the pub- lic right-of-way. All retaining walls or fences must be 6 inches back from the public sidewalk, regardless of where the property line is. If your property is a designated landmark or historic district property, landmark design review and a zoning permit are required regardless of the height or location of the fence. If your property is on a designated parkway, parkways review and a zon- ing permit are required regardless of the height or location of the fence. If your property is on a floodplain or if you are digging 2 feet from a sewer line, a wastewater permit is re- quired. If your fence is all or part mason- ry and the masonry measures more than 4 feet in height from the footer (not from grade), a building permit is required. Full masonry walls over 6 feet in height require commercial engineer- ing review. If your property is not a landmark and is not in a designated historic dis- trict or designated parkway, the fol- lowing rules apply. For front yard fences: – If 4 feet or shorter, no permit is required. – If taller than 4 feet, an over- height fence permit is required; any 4-foot linear section of an over-height fence or wall in the primary street set- back shall be less than 50% solid over its entire area, and meet other condi- tions in Denver Zoning Code for per- mit to be approved. For back yard fences: – If 4 feet or shorter, no permit is required. – If between 4 and 6 feet, a zoning permit is required. – If taller than 6 feet, an over- height fence permit is required; fence must meet conditions in Denver Zon- ing Code for permit to be approved. – If fence is taller than 8 feet or doesn't meet over-height fence permit conditions, a zoning variance from Board of Adjustment is required. A building permit is also required for this height. Woodbury, Minnesota Fence ordinance summary A fence up to 6 feet in height may be erected on the rear lot line, the side lot lines and return to the nearest front corner of the principal building. 1. A fence not exceeding 4 feet in height may be erected on the side lot lines forward of the front corner of the principal building. 2. Fences in excess of 30 inches in height extending across front yards are not permitted in residential platted areas. 3. No fence shall be constructed in a manner that would block the view of vehicular traffic or restrict snow plowing of streets. 4. Fences may be placed up to property lines. It is the owner's re- sponsibility to verify the location of the property lines. 5. The side of the fence consid- ered to be the face (the finished side) shall face adjoining property. 6. Barbed wire fences are not per- mitted in platted areas. 7. All fences shall be properly maintained with respect to appear- ance and safety. 8. Swimming pools must be pro- tected by a fence at least 4 feet high, with a self-closing, self-latching lock- able gate, built so that a 4-inch sphere cannot pass through. 9. It is suggested to have a survey or locate property lines before install- ing fences. The city does not have sur- veyors on staff to perform this service. Fence ordinances from across the country I saw the movie, "Crouching Tiger, Hid- den Dragon" and I was surprised because I didn't see any tigers or dragons. And then I realized why: they're crouching and hid- den. – Steve Martin • • • I used to own an ant farm but had to give it up. I couldn't find tractors small enough to fit in there. – Steven Wright • • • I believe that if life gives you lemons, you should make lemonade... And then try to find somebody whose life has given them vodka and have a party. – Ron White