Burlington's Fence Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles fence regulations a little differently. In Burlington, Wisconsin, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Height Limits

Burlington Code Chapter 315 (Zoning) caps residential fences at 6 feet in side and rear yards. Front (street) yard fences are limited to 4 feet if at least 80% open or 3 feet if less open. Decorative walls cannot exceed 12 feet and decorative fences cannot exceed 10 feet. A fence permit from the Building Inspector is required citywide.

Key details: 6 Ft Max: 6 ft max in side and rear yards. 4 Ft Max: 4 ft max in street yard if 80% open. 3 Ft Max: 3 ft max in street yard if less open. Decorative Fence: Decorative fence 10 ft, decorative wall 12 ft cap. Fence Permit: Fence permit required from Building Inspector.

Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.

Neighbor Fence Rules

WI Stat. §90.02 to 90.14 provides line fence cost-sharing for rural/agricultural land. Urban residential fences: each owner responsible for their own.

Key details: Rural: Cost-sharing statute (§90.02). Urban: Each owner responsible. Disputes: Town supervisor (rural). Written Agreement: Recommended.

Civil dispute for cost-sharing in urban areas. Rural: town supervisor adjudication per §90.02. Property line encroachments: survey and civil remedy.

The Bottom Line

Burlington'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 Burlington is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Burlington's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.