Height Limits: Fairfax vs Herndon
How do height limits rules compare between Fairfax, VA and Herndon, VA?
Fairfax and Herndon have similar restriction levels.
Fairfax, VA
Fairfax County
Residential fences in the City of Fairfax are typically limited to 4 feet in front yards and 6 to 7 feet in side and rear yards under the zoning ordinance. Fences over these heights require a building permit and often a zoning variance, and corner lots must meet sight-distance triangles.
View full Fairfax rules →Herndon, VA
Fairfax County
Herndon allows fences up to 6 feet in rear and side yards and up to 4 feet in front yards. Corner lots and visibility triangles at intersections have additional height restrictions to preserve traffic sight lines.
View full Herndon rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fairfax | Herndon |
|---|---|---|
| Front yard | 4 feet max | - |
| Side and rear | 6 to 7 feet | - |
| Building permit | Required over 7 feet | - |
| Sight triangle | 30 inches at corners | 30 inch limit |
| Pool enclosure | 48 inches minimum | - |
| Rear/side yard max | - | 6 feet |
| Front yard max | - | 4 feet |
| Over 6 feet | - | Building permit required |
| HOA rules | - | Often stricter |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fairfax FAQ
Can I build an 8-foot privacy fence?
Only with a building permit and likely a zoning variance. It is not allowed by right in most zones.
Does a lattice topper count toward height?
Yes. Lattice or trellis attached to the fence counts toward the overall height.
Who measures the height at enforcement?
Code Administration staff measure from natural ground level to the highest point of the fence.
Herndon FAQ
Can I build an 8 foot privacy fence?
Only with a building permit and engineered approval. Standard residential limit is 6 feet.
Are there different rules for corner lots?
Yes. Both street-facing yards are treated as front yards, and sight triangles limit fence height near intersections.
Compare other topics
See how Fairfax and Herndon compare on other ordinance categories.
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