Fences must have the finished side facing outward. Barbed wire and electrified fences are prohibited in residential zones. Fences must be maintained in good structural condition.
General fence requirements in Takoma Park follow Montgomery County zoning (Chapter 59) and building code standards. Fences must be set back from the public right-of-way and cannot encroach on sidewalks, utility easements, or neighboring properties. The finished or decorative side of any fence must face outward toward the street and neighboring properties. Electrified fences and barbed wire or razor wire are prohibited in residential zones. Fences must be maintained in good structural condition -- leaning, damaged, or deteriorating fences may be cited as property maintenance violations. Chain link, wood, vinyl, composite, wrought iron, and similar standard materials are permitted. Concrete block or masonry walls used as fences may trigger additional building permit requirements. Temporary construction fencing is allowed during active permitted work but must be removed upon project completion. Natural hedges used as fencing are not subject to fence height limits but must be maintained and not obstruct public right-of-way. The Takoma Park Historic District has additional design standards for fences visible from the public way.
Fence in disrepair: property maintenance violation. Barbed wire in residential zone: immediate violation notice. Encroachment on right-of-way: removal order.
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