6 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 1 city in Schenectady County, New York.
Verified from official government sources
Schenectady County has no countywide fence height limit. Each municipality sets its own: typical maximums are 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side/rear yards for residential properties.
No countywide fence permit exists. City of Schenectady and most towns require a building or zoning permit for fences over 6 feet or in required yards; many also require a permit for any fence that sits on or near a lot line.
Shared boundary fences are governed by NY Real Property Law §840. Neighbors can equally share cost and maintenance of a properly sited boundary fence. Schenectady County has no additional ordinance.
Pool barriers are governed by NYS Residential Code Appendix G and enforced by each Schenectady County municipality's building department. Minimum 48-inch barrier, self-closing/self-latching gate, and pool alarm for post-2006 installations.
Corner-lot sight triangles are enforced by each Schenectady County municipality. Fences, hedges, and walls within the sight triangle (typically 25 ft from the corner) may not exceed 30–36 inches. County does not set the standard.
No countywide restriction on fence materials. Wood, vinyl, chain link, ornamental metal, and masonry are all generally allowed. Chain link is commonly restricted in front yards by local code.
1 cities in Schenectady 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 Schenectady County — parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Schenectady County Ordinance Hub →