Fence Regulations in Phoenix, AZ (2026)
6 verified fence regulations for Phoenix, Arizona, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Height Limits
Phoenix Zoning Ordinance Section 703 regulates fence heights. Front-yard fences are limited to 40 inches (3 feet 4 inches). Side and rear yard fences enclosing private yards may be up to 6 feet. Properties in Historic Preservation Overlay Districts have a 3-foot front-yard limit with a Certificate of Appropriateness required. Residential properties adjacent to non-residential zones must have 8-foot walls along the shared property line.
Fences: Height Limits
Some RestrictionsPermit Requirements
Block walls and masonry fences typically require building permits in Phoenix. Wood fences under 6 feet may be exempt. Pool barriers must meet ARS §36-1681.
Phoenix Fence Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsNeighbor Fence Rules
Phoenix does not have a specific fence dispute resolution ordinance between neighbors. Arizona follows common law for shared fence costs and disputes. There is no statutory requirement to share fence costs with neighbors. Property owners building a fence must stay on their own property or obtain neighbor agreement. Spite fence claims are handled under common law nuisance principles.
Fences: Neighbor Rules
Few RestrictionsRetaining Walls
Phoenix requires building permits for retaining walls over 3 feet in height. Combinations of retaining walls and fences always require structural design calculations. Combined wall-fence structures exceeding 9 feet need zoning approval. Walls 3 feet or less are exempt from permits unless on hillside lots.
Phoenix Retaining Wall Regulations
Some RestrictionsPool Barriers
Phoenix and Arizona law (ARS §36-1681) require all swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs with water 24 inches or more deep to have both exterior and interior barriers. Exterior fences must be at least 5 feet high with self-closing, self-latching gates. Interior barriers between the home and pool are required for properties with children under 6.
Phoenix Pool Barrier & Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsMaterial Restrictions
Phoenix Zoning Ordinance Section 703 and City Code Section 23-31 regulate fence materials. Barbed wire fences and brush fences are prohibited in residential areas unless approved by the Planning and Development Director. Temporary construction security fences are allowed during active building. Chain-link fencing is permitted. Block/masonry walls are the predominant residential fencing material in Phoenix.
Fences: Material Restrictions
Some RestrictionsLooking for Maricopa County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Phoenix city rules.
Fence Regulations in Maricopa County →