Jacksonville, FL Fence Regulations: Fence Requirements (2026)

General fence requirements in Duval County are established by Jacksonville Ordinance Code Ch. 656 (Zoning Code) and the property maintenance code. Fences must be installed with the finished or decorative side facing the adjacent property or street (the good-neighbor rule). All fences must be maintained in good structural condition without leaning, missing boards, or protruding hardware. Fences may not encroach on public rights-of-way, utility easements, or drainage easements. Given Duval County's significant flood risk from the St. Johns River and tributaries, fences must not obstruct the natural flow of stormwater. Solid privacy fences in flood-prone areas should incorporate breakaway panels or openings near grade level to allow floodwater passage. Fences along canal banks and retention ponds must maintain maintenance access for the St. Johns River Water Management District. Electric fences are prohibited in residential zones. In PUD (Planned Unit Development) communities, the approved PUD plan may specify fence standards that supersede general zoning requirements. All fences must be set back at least 1 foot from sidewalks to avoid obstruction. In residential zones, fences may extend from the front building line to the rear property boundary along side property lines.