Maricopa County zoning ordinance regulates fence and wall heights in unincorporated areas. Fences over 6 feet require a zoning clearance permit. Fences over 6 feet (or 9 feet for CMU walls 6 inches or thicker) require plans sealed by an Arizona Registered Professional. All fencing over 1 foot in height requires a permit from Planning and Development.
In unincorporated Maricopa County areas with zoning overlays, residential fences are typically limited to six feet in side and rear yards and three feet in front yards. Properties without zoning designation have no county-imposed fence height limits, though HOA CC&Rs may apply on private subdivisions. Desert-style open fencing such as wrought iron, pipe rail, and split rail are common to maintain desert views and wildlife corridors. Contact Maricopa County Planning and Development at (602) 506-3301 to verify whether your parcel falls within a zoning district. Fences within flood zones may require engineering review to avoid obstructing drainage flow during monsoon events.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Maricopa County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how Maricopa County's height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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