Fence Regulations in Ann Arbor, MI (2026)
6 verified fence regulations for Ann Arbor, Michigan, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Height Limits
Ann Arbor caps fences at 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards for residential properties. Corner-lot fences must respect a vision-clearance triangle at intersections. Fences over 6 feet require a zoning permit. Barbed wire, electrified fences, and razor wire are prohibited in residential zones.
Ann Arbor Fence Height Limits
Some RestrictionsPermit Requirements
Ann Arbor may require permits for fences over a certain height. Standard residential fences under 6 feet are often exempt from building permits.
Ann Arbor Fence Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsNeighbor Fence Rules
Michigan has no residential Good Neighbor Fence Act. MCL §43.51 covers agricultural partition fences (township fence viewers). Boundary disputes resolved through common law.
Ann Arbor Neighbor Fence Rules
Some RestrictionsRetaining Walls
Ann Arbor requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Ann Arbor Retaining Wall Regulations
Some RestrictionsPool Barriers
Ann Arbor requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Ann Arbor Pool Barrier & Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsMaterial Restrictions
Ann Arbor regulates fence materials by zone. Wood, vinyl, and wrought iron are standard. Chain-link may be restricted in front yards. Barbed wire prohibited in residential areas.
Ann Arbor Fence Material Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Washtenaw County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Ann Arbor city rules.
Fence Regulations in Washtenaw County →