Fence Regulations in Manitou Springs, CO: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Manitou Springs or are thinking about moving there, fence regulations are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Manitou Springs has 3 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of fence regulations, and some of them might surprise you.

Height Limits

Fence height limits in Manitou Springs are established in the Land Use and Development Code (LUDC, Title 18). The city's historic character and hilly terrain mean fence placement and height are reviewed with neighborhood compatibility in mind.

Key details: Front Yard Typical Max: 4 feet (confirm with Planning Dept). Side/Rear Yard Typical Max: 6 feet (confirm with Planning Dept). Code Reference: Title 18 LUDC — Zoning. Planning Dept: 719-685-4398. Permits: PPRBD: 719-327-2880.

Code compliance notice. Modify or remove non-compliant fence. Fines if not corrected.

Permit Requirements

Building permits for fences in Manitou Springs are issued by PPRBD. Fences exceeding height limits or in historic overlay districts may require additional review. Standard residential fences meeting code may not require a permit.

Key details: Permitting Agency: PPRBD: 719-327-2880. Historic District Review: May apply — contact Planning: 719-685-4398. Standard Fences: May not require permit if within code standards. Utility Locate: Call 811 before digging.

Unpermitted fence: stop-work order. Retroactive permit with penalty. May require modification.

Neighbor Fence Rules

Colorado Good Neighbor Fence Law (C.R.S. §35-46-112) applies in Manitou Springs. Both property owners sharing a boundary fence are equally responsible for maintenance costs. No city notification requirement for standard fence installations.

Key details: State Fence Law: C.R.S. §35-46-112 — shared boundary fence costs. Neighbor Notification: Not required by city code. Property Survey: Strongly recommended given dense housing. HOA/Historic District: May impose additional requirements.

Civil dispute - no city enforcement for cost-sharing. Property line encroachments: survey and civil remedy. HOA violations per CC&Rs.

The rules around neighbor fence rules in Manitou Springs lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.

The Bottom Line

Manitou Springs'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 Manitou Springs is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Manitou Springs'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.