6 rules for unincorporated Rensselaer County, New York.
Verified from official government sources
Fence heights set by local zoning. Troy allows 4 ft in front yards and 6 ft in side/rear yards. Rural towns (Brunswick, Schodack, Sand Lake) typically allow 6-8 ft rear fences.
Fence permits required in most Rensselaer County cities and incorporated villages. Troy requires permit for fences over 4 ft; permit fee approximately 50-100 dollars. Rural towns often exempt agricultural fencing.
NY Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law 843 governs division fences; shared boundary fences require mutual agreement. Finished side of fence typically must face neighbor per local custom; not statutorily required.
NY State Residential Code Appendix G requires 48-inch minimum barrier around all pools over 24 inches deep. Self-closing, self-latching gates opening outward from pool required. Enforced statewide including Rensselaer County.
Corner visibility triangles required countywide. Troy requires clear sight triangle 25 ft from corner with no obstruction above 30 inches. Rural towns use 30 ft triangle standard.
No countywide material restrictions. Most municipalities allow wood, vinyl, chain link, metal, and masonry. Troy historic districts (Central Troy, Washington Park) restrict materials to wood and wrought iron via Landmark Review.
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