Swann Estates Neighborhood Association

Code Enforcement Tip of the Month February, 2008

Mar 07, 2008

Section 6.07.00 of Hillsborough County's Land Development Code regulates the installation of fences within the unincorporated areas of Hillsborough County. These regulations restrict the height, placement, and construction of both required and optional fencing. Fences may be required on commercial properties; however this document will focus on fences erected on residential properties.

Question: How high can I erect a fence?

Fences over four feet in height are not allowed within the front yard, with the exception of yards which abut arterial or collector streets, fences surrounding public utility structures, and when a six-foot fence height is required for the purpose of screening. Fences in side and rear yards are not to exceed six feet, except in the specific circumstances as described above. For corner lots, a fence up to six feet in height is allowed within one front yard, which would then function as a side yard, provided the fence is located no more than ten feet into the required front yard, as measured from the rear line of the front yard.
Question: Are there restrictions concerning the face of the fence?

The finished side of the fence must face outwards only where visible from road rights-of-way. This does not apply to the fence located in the side yard or rear yard. All posts and support beams are to be placed on the unfinished side of the fence. This does not preclude the installation of post columns with spanning members of metal, wood, or other materials; in which case, the posts are equal in presentation to both sides of the fence.

Question: What materials can be used in the construction of a fence?

In general, the design of a fence should be in keeping with neighborhood appearance. Fences must be constructed of commonly used materials such as chain link, masonry, wood or PVC. Scrap metal or offensive material is not allowed.

In addition, fences in residential districts cannot contain any substance such as broken glass, spikes, barbs, nails, electronically charged wiring or similar materials designed to inflict pain or injury to any person or animal.

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