Austin, TX Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)

Austin's fence height rules in Chapter 25-2 Subchapter F (Land Development Code) are administered by Development Services. Residential fences may reach 6 feet in side and rear yards and 4 feet in front yards measured from natural grade, both without a building permit. Corner lots and driveway intersections require a 25-foot visibility triangle measured along each right-of-way where fences cannot exceed 2 feet 6 inches to preserve sight distance for vehicles and pedestrians. Fences over the standard limits require a zoning variance from the Board of Adjustment, with case fees starting around $1,000 and a public hearing. Pool barriers must meet the separate 48-inch International Swimming Pool and Spa Code minimum under Chapter 25-12. Hill Country Roadway Corridors along Loop 360, FM 2222, and FM 2244 impose material and design rules even at compliant heights. Heritage Trees protected under Chapter 25-8 (24-inch DBH protected species) limit post placement within the Critical Root Zone, requiring an arborist permit. HOAs may impose stricter rules under Texas Property Code §202, but cannot ban xeriscape-related fencing under §202.007. Barbed and razor wire are prohibited in residential zones.