Height Limits: Phoenix vs Tempe
How do height limits rules compare between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Phoenix and Tempe have similar restriction levels.
Phoenix, AZ
Maricopa County
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.
View full Phoenix rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe's zoning code limits residential fence heights to 6 feet in side and rear yards and 3 feet in front yards. Corner lots may have additional visibility triangle requirements to ensure driver sight lines at intersections.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Phoenix | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard | 40 inches maximum | - |
| Side/Rear Yard | Up to 6 feet | - |
| Historic Districts | 3 feet front yard, CoA required | - |
| Adjacent to Commercial | 8-foot wall required | - |
| Code | Zoning Ordinance Section 703 | Tempe Zoning and Development Code |
| Front Yard Max | - | 3 feet |
| Side/Rear Yard Max | - | 6 feet |
| Corner Lots | - | Sight triangle restrictions apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Phoenix FAQ
Tempe FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Tempe?
Up to 6 feet in side and rear yards, and up to 3 feet in front yards. Corner lots have additional visibility requirements at intersections.
Do retaining walls count toward fence height?
Yes. The combined height of a retaining wall and fence must meet the applicable height limit for that yard area.
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