Wichita, KS Fence Regulations: Fence Requirements (2026)

Under the Wichita-Sedgwick County Unified Zoning Code, fences in residential districts are limited to 4 feet in the front yard setback and 6 feet in side and rear yards. Fences taller than 6 feet require a building permit from the Office of Central Inspection. Corner lots must maintain a clear sightline triangle (typically 25 feet from the curb intersection) where no fence, hedge, or obstruction over 30 inches is permitted. Acceptable materials include wood, vinyl, masonry, ornamental metal, and chain link. Barbed wire, razor wire, and electrified fencing are prohibited in residential zones but may be allowed in industrial and agricultural districts subject to height and setback rules. The finished side of a wood fence is customarily placed toward the neighbor or street, and many neighborhoods require this through HOA covenants. Fences in drainage easements are allowed only with an encroachment permit and must be removable to allow city access. Property owners must locate the property line accurately before installation and call 811 Kansas One Call before digging post holes. Permits and inspections are coordinated through OCI, and complaints are handled by the Department of Metropolitan Area Building and Construction Department.