Height Limits: Detroit vs Westland
How do height limits rules compare between Detroit, MI and Westland, MI?
Detroit and Westland have similar restriction levels.
Detroit, MI
Wayne County
Detroit's general fence height standards live in Chapter 50, Article XIV (Secs. 50-14-381 and 50-14-385); in historic districts the Historic District Commission's Fence and Hedge Guidelines cap fences at 6 feet at the side, 8 feet at the rear, and 3 feet in the front (corner lots only).
View full Detroit rules →Westland, MI
Wayne County
Westland typically limits front-yard fences to 4 feet and rear and side-yard fences to 6 feet in residential zones. Corner lots have visibility triangle requirements. Permits are usually required.
View full Westland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Detroit | Westland |
|---|---|---|
| Side Yard (Historic Dist.) | 6 feet | - |
| Rear Yard (Historic Dist.) | 8 feet | - |
| Front Yard (Historic Dist.) | 3 ft, corner lots only | - |
| Code Section | Detroit Ch. 50, Sec. 50-14-385 | - |
| Historic Review | Detroit HDC required | - |
| Front Yard | - | 4 feet maximum typical |
| Rear/Side Yard | - | 6 feet maximum typical |
| Commercial | - | Up to 8 feet allowed |
| Corner Lots | - | Visibility triangle applies |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Detroit FAQ
How tall can a backyard fence be in Detroit?
In Detroit's historic districts, 8 feet at the rear property line and 6 feet at the side at the front face of the house. Citywide, Chapter 50 Sec. 50-14-385 governs the underlying height limits applied by BSEED.
Can I put a fence in my Detroit front yard?
Generally no. Front-yard fencing is not allowed except on corner lots (and is capped at 3 feet there), or in historic districts whose Element of Design specifically recognizes a front-yard fence pattern.
Westland FAQ
Can I build a 6-foot fence in my front yard?
No, front-yard fences in Westland residential zones are typically capped at 4 feet. Seek a variance for exceptions.
What height is allowed around a pool?
Pool barrier fences must be at least 4 feet under Michigan Residential Code, with self-closing gates.
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