Memphis fences must comply with height, material, and setback rules in the Unified Development Code. Residential front-yard fences are limited to 4 feet; side and rear yards allow 6 feet. Fences cannot use barbed wire in residential zones or block corner visibility.
Memphis Unified Development Code Chapter 4 establishes fence standards across residential, commercial, and industrial zones. Residential fences (R-series) are capped at 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards. Corner-lot visibility triangles require fences under 3 feet within 25 feet of the intersection. Commercial and industrial zones may use 8-foot fences and allow barbed wire above 6 feet; residential zones prohibit barbed wire, razor wire, and electrified fences (except pet-containment invisible fences). Permitted materials include wood, vinyl, masonry, chain link, wrought iron, and composite. Temporary construction fencing is allowed with an active building permit. Historic districts (Central Gardens, Victorian Village, Evergreen) have Landmarks Commission review with additional material and design standards. Fences over public easements may be required to be removable for utility access. Agricultural zones and rural Shelby County allow barbed-wire perimeter fencing for livestock.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Memphis code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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