7 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 2 cities in Macomb County, Michigan.
Verified from official government sources
Macomb County does not zone private land, so it sets no countywide fence-height cap. Height limits are established by each township, city, or village. Sterling Heights, for example, allows residential fences three to six feet tall on side and rear lot lines.
Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, Act 110 of 2006, MCL 125.3201(1)
A local unit of government may adopt land development regulations under the zoning ordinance designating or limiting the location, height, bulk, number of stories, uses, and size of dwellings, buildings, and structures that may be erected or altered, including tents and recreational vehicles.
Macomb County issues no fence permits for private land. Whether a permit is required depends on your township, city, or village. Sterling Heights, for example, makes it unlawful to build any fence without first obtaining a municipal permit.
Macomb County has no shared-fence ordinance. Boundary fences fall under Michigan's statewide Fences and Fence Viewers Act (MCL 43.51 et seq.), and any location or nuisance rules are set by your township, city, or village.
Michigan Fences and Fence Viewers Act, Act 34 of 1978, MCL 43.53
(1) The owner of real property who constructs a fence shall pay for the construction and maintenance of that fence. (2) If an adjoining property owner... uses or begins to use the fence for purposes of restraining or containing animals [they] shall compensate the owner... for the adjoining property owner's proportionate share of the current value of the fence.
Macomb County does not zone private land, so retaining-wall permits and height rules come from your township, city, or village and the Michigan Building Code they enforce. Confirm requirements with your local building department before you build.
Macomb County sets no general fence-construction standards on private land. Location, setback, and design requirements are established by each township, city, or village. Sterling Heights, for example, allows a three-to-six-foot fence on side and rear lot lines.
Macomb County imposes no fence-material rules on private land. Bans on barbed wire, electric fencing, or specific materials are set by each township, city, or village, so check your local ordinance before choosing a fence.
Macomb County sets no approved-materials list for fences on private land. Wood, vinyl, chain-link, and other materials are governed only by your township, city, or village ordinance, which may cap opacity or ban certain types.
2 cities in Macomb County have their own fence regulations rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
See every category we cover for Macomb County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Macomb County Ordinance Hub →