Fence Regulations in Harford County, MD (2026)
3 rules for unincorporated Harford County, Maryland.
Verified from official government sources
Height Limits
In unincorporated Harford County, front-yard fences and walls on residential lots top out at 4 feet under Harford County Code § 267-24B, rising to 6 feet where the fencing is a consistent, integral part of the project design. Rear and side yard fences can reach 8 feet, tennis court fences 12 feet, and business or industrial security fences 10 feet.
Harford County Fence Height Limits
Some RestrictionsHarford County Code § 267-24B
Fences and walls may be located in required yards in accordance with the following: ... Front yards. For all residential units, walls and fences shall not exceed 4 feet in height above ground elevation. Where fences and walls are an integral part of the unit design or are applied in a consistent manner throughout the project, fences and walls may be constructed to a maximum of 6 feet above grou...
Fence Permit Requirements
Every fence or wall built in unincorporated Harford County needs a zoning certificate before construction starts, per Harford County Code § 267-24B, regardless of height, material or location on the lot. The Director of Planning issues the certificate under the county's general zoning certificate process, and no fence is exempt from this permit step.
Harford County Fence Permit Requirement
Some RestrictionsHarford County Code § 267-24B
Fences and walls. A zoning certificate is required for all fences and walls. Fences and walls may be located in required yards in accordance with the following:
Retaining Walls
Harford County requires a zoning certificate for any retaining wall 4 feet or taller under § 267-27C(6)(f) of the zoning code. Walls needing structural review carry a building permit fee of $2 per lineal foot plus a $100 (residential) or $200 (commercial) application fee under § 157-16A, while a standalone retaining wall zoning certificate runs a flat $30.
Harford County Retaining Wall Permit Rules
Some RestrictionsHarford County Code § 267-27C(6)(f); § 157-16A
Retaining walls, 4 feet or greater in height, shall require a zoning certificate. ... A wall that is constructed to hold a mass of earth in place or prevent erosion of an embankment. ... Retaining wall $30. Retaining wall (building permit required) Commercial: $2.00 per lineal foot plus 200 non-refundable application fee residential: $2.00 per lineal foot plus $100 non-refundable application fee.
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