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Fence Regulations in Knox County, TN (2026)

2 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 1 city in Knox County, Tennessee.

Verified from official government sources

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

Height Limits

Knox County does not require ordinary residential fences, but its Zoning Ordinance mandates opaque screening fences in specific cases, such as a 5-to-6-foot enclosure around off-street parking approved in a restrictive zone and a 7-foot enclosure around mobile home parks.

When Fences Are Required in Knox County TN

Some Restrictions

Knox County Zoning Ordinance Sec. 3.51.10.B

All sides of the lot, except those openings for ingress and egress, shall be enclosed with an opaque ornamental fence, wall or dense evergreen hedge having a height of not less than five (5) feet nor more than six (6) feet. Such fence, wall or hedge shall be maintained in good condition.

Fence Permit Requirements

Knox County's Zoning Ordinance requires a written building permit from Code Administration and Inspections before erecting or moving any structure, and each accessory structure needs its own permit. Confirm whether your specific fence triggers a permit before you build.

Do You Need a Fence Permit in Knox County TN?

Some Restrictions

Knox County Zoning Ordinance Sec. 6.10.01

Except as hereinbefore provided, a written building permit shall be obtained from the department of code administration and inspections before starting or proceeding with the erection, structural alteration, or moving of any building or structure, or changing the use of any building or land.

Fence Regulations by City in Knox County

1 cities in Knox County have their own fence regulations rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.

All Knox County ordinances

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

Knox County Ordinance Hub →