How Bessemer Handles Fence Regulations: A Practical Guide

Bessemer maintains 40 local ordinances across all categories, and 3 of those deal specifically with fence regulations. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Bessemer falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

Height Limits

Bessemer's zoning ordinance (Appendix B) regulates fence height in all zoning districts. Residential zones typically limit front yard fences to lower heights than side or rear yard fences. A zoning or building permit is required.

Key details: Ordinance: Appendix B Zoning Ordinance. Permit Required: Yes. Front Yard: Lower height limits apply. Contact: Building Dept. (205) 424-4060.

Non-compliant fence: correction notice. Failure to comply: $100 to $500 per day. Forced removal possible.

Permit Requirements

Bessemer requires building permits for fence construction. The Building Department reviews applications for compliance with the zoning ordinance. The minimum permit fee is $26. All contractors must have a current Bessemer business license.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes, building permit. Minimum Fee: $26. Contractor License: Bessemer business license required. Contact: Building Dept., 1700 3rd Ave N.

Building without permit: $200 to $500. May require removal and re-permitting. Stop-work orders possible.

Neighbor Fence Rules

Alabama's partition-fence statute (Ala. Code §35-7-3) can make a boundary fence between improved lands a shared expense between neighbors. Bessemer fences must meet zoning setback requirements, and boundary disputes are civil matters resolved through the courts.

Key details: Shared Cost Law: Partition fences shared (§35-7-3). Livestock: Fence-in state (§3-5-2). Setbacks: Per zoning district requirements. Disputes: Civil court matter.

Building on neighbor's property: civil liability. Encroachment: forced removal possible by court order.

If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Bessemer gives residents more flexibility on neighbor fence rules.

The Bottom Line

Bessemer's fence regulations rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Bessemer is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Bessemer can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.