Lakewood's Fence Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles fence regulations a little differently. In Lakewood, New Jersey, 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.

Height Limits

Lakewood regulates fence heights through the Unified Development Ordinance. Typical NJ residential standards apply: up to 6 feet in rear/side yards and up to 4 feet in front yards. Specific limits should be confirmed with the Zoning Office.

Key details: Typical Rear/Side: 6 feet (verify with Zoning). Typical Front: 4 feet (verify with Zoning). Zoning Permit: Required ($35). Contact: Lakewood Zoning Office.

Building a fence without zoning approval or in violation of height limits requires correction. General penalties apply.

Permit Requirements

Lakewood requires zoning approval and a building permit for all fence construction. The basic zoning permit fee is $35. Pool fencing has additional requirements. Fences, like all accessory structures, must comply with the Unified Development Ordinance.

Key details: Permits Required: Zoning + building permit. Zoning Fee: $35. Pool Fences: Additional requirements. Contact: Lakewood Zoning Office.

Constructing a fence without permits is a zoning violation requiring correction and possible fines.

Neighbor Fence Rules

New Jersey has no statutory cost-sharing for boundary fences. In Lakewood, fences must comply with setback requirements and not impede drainage to adjacent properties. Boundary disputes are civil matters.

Key details: Cost Sharing: Not required by NJ law. Drainage: 3-inch gap above grade required. Boundary Disputes: Civil matter. Setback Compliance: Required per zone.

Fences impeding drainage or placed on neighboring property must be corrected.

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

The Bottom Line

Lakewood'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 Lakewood is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Lakewood'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.