Fence Regulations in Lincoln County, SD (2026)
3 rules for unincorporated Lincoln County, South Dakota.
Verified from official government sources
Height Limits
In unincorporated Lincoln County, South Dakota, fences may rise to four feet anywhere on a lot, but a fence within 30 feet of a street intersection can be no more than 30% solid. Fences behind the front building line may reach six feet, and commercial and industrial parcels get an eight-foot allowance away from residential neighbors.
Lincoln County SD Fence Height Limits
Some RestrictionsLincoln County Code § 154.240
(A) Fences up to four feet in height may be located on any part of the lot, except that such a fence may not be more than 30% solid if located within 30 feet of a street intersection, measuring along the property line. (B) Fences up to six feet in height may be erected on those parts of a lot that are as far back or farther back from the street than the main building. (C) Exceptions: (1) Fences...
Fence Permit Requirements
In unincorporated Lincoln County, South Dakota, fences are exempt from a building permit under the county's adopted 2018 International Residential Code amendments, Lincoln County Code § 151.33 (R105.2). No application to the building official is required before installing a residential fence. The exemption does not authorize work that violates zoning, setback, or other county ordinances, and larger accessory structures still need a separate permit.
Fence Building Permits in Lincoln County, SD
Few RestrictionsLincoln County Code § 151.33 (IRC R105.2)
R105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemption from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following: Building: ... 2. Fences
Retaining Walls
In unincorporated Lincoln County, South Dakota, a retaining wall does not need a building permit if it stands 4 feet or less, measured from the bottom of the grade to the top of the wall, and does not support a surcharge, under Lincoln County Code § 151.33 (R105.2). Taller walls, or any wall carrying a surcharge load, fall under the general permit requirement in R105.1 and must go through the building official before construction begins.
Retaining Wall Permits in Lincoln County, SD
Light RestrictionsLincoln County Code § 151.33 (IRC R105.2)
R105.2 Work exempt from permit. ... Permits shall not be required for the following: Building: ... ... 3. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1,219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the grade elevation to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge.
All Lincoln County ordinances
See every category we cover for Lincoln County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Lincoln County Ordinance Hub →