Centennial's Fence Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles fence regulations a little differently. In Centennial, Colorado, there are 3 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.

Neighbor Fence Rules

Colorado's Good Neighbor Fence Law (CRS §35-46-112) applies in Centennial. Fences may be built on the property line with the neighbor's consent. Written notification of fence plans with a 30-day response period is recommended. Colorado has no shared-cost requirement.

Key details: Property Line: Neighbor consent required. Notification: 30-day written notice recommended. Shared Cost: Not required in Colorado. State Law: CRS §35-46-112.

Building on neighbor's property without consent: potential civil trespass. Encroachment disputes handled through civil courts.

Centennial is more permissive than most cities when it comes to neighbor fence rules. That said, there are still limits.

Height Limits

Centennial's Land Development Code limits residential fences to 6 feet, with variances required for taller fences. Front yard fences must be at least 50% open (picket, split rail, wrought iron). Visibility triangles near intersections limit fences to 3 feet. Screening fences may reach 14 feet in certain districts.

Key details: Residential Max: 6 ft (variance for taller). Front Yard: 50% open required. Visibility Triangle: 3 ft maximum. Screening Max: Up to 14 ft in some districts.

Non-compliant fences: code violation. Fences in visibility triangles: must be reduced to 3 feet or less.

Permit Requirements

Centennial requires a fence permit for all new fences and replacement fences where height, location, or materials are changing. Permits can be applied for through the city's online permitting portal. A same-for-same replacement typically does not require a permit.

Key details: New Fences: Permit required. Replacement: Permit if changing height/materials. Same-for-Same: No permit needed. Apply: Online permitting portal.

Building without a permit when required: building code violation. Non-compliant fences: must be modified or removed.

The Bottom Line

Centennial'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 Centennial is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Centennial's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.