Fence Regulations in Forsyth County, NC (2026)

3 rules for unincorporated Forsyth County, North Carolina.

Verified from official government sources

Note: These county rules apply to unincorporated areas of Forsyth County. If you live within an incorporated city, that city's own rules apply: see the city list below.

Height Limits

Under the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County UDO, a residential fence six feet or under needs no building permit; anything over six feet triggers a permit and engineer-stamped plans. No zoning setback applies to the fence itself.

Fence Height in Unincorporated Forsyth County

Some Restrictions

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Inspections — Permit Requirements for Fences

Permits are required for fences that are over six (6) feet in height; if your fence is six (6) feet in height or under, a building permit is not required.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Fence Permit Requirements

A building permit is only required for fences over six feet tall in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County. Those need engineer-sealed plans. Fences six feet or under need no permit, though you may buy one; cost is $0.15/sq ft with a $100 minimum.

When a Fence Permit Is Required

Some Restrictions

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Inspections — Permit Requirements for Fences

The permit cost is based on the square footage of the proposed fence at a rate of $.15/square foot with a $100.00 minimum. If you are a state licensed contractor the Homeowner's Recovery Fee of $10.00 will be added.

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Neighbor Fence Rules

The county sets no fence setback, so you may place a fence anywhere on your own property except in easements and rights-of-way. Inspections advises staying at least six inches off the line to avoid neighbor disputes over the exact boundary.

Fences and Property Lines in Forsyth County

Some Restrictions

Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Inspections — Permit Requirements for Fences

No-fences do not have a setback requirement. You can place a fence anywhere on your property, with the exception of any easements and/or rights of way. You are advised to stay at least six (6) inches off of your property line to avoid any civil disputes with your neighbor(s).

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

All Forsyth County ordinances

See every category we cover for Forsyth County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.

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