Jackson County, MO Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Max fence height
- 8 feet countywide
- Front-yard picket fence limit
- 3 feet
- Front-yard chain-link limit
- 4 feet
- Sight triangle
- no fence may encroach
- Applies to
- unincorporated Jackson County only
Summary
In unincorporated Jackson County, fences cap at 8 feet, with front-yard picket fences limited to 3 feet and chain-link to 4 feet, and none may block the sight triangle at corners. Kansas City, Independence, Lee's Summit, Blue Springs, Raytown and Grandview enforce their own separate codes.
Opaque or solid fences shall be placed no closer to the front lot line than the front yard setback line established by the building or buildings erected upon said lot. Picket fences not exceeding three (3) feet in height, chain link fences not exceeding four (4) feet in height, wrought iron fences and other decorative fences may be located in the front yard, provided that they do not conflict with the sight triangle.
3. Privacy fences shall be located no closer to the said lot line than the platted side yard setback line of residential corner lots which adjoin interior lots that front or face on to the side street.
4. No fence shall be constructed which will constitute a traffic hazard or encroach upon the sight triangle as defined in Section 24006.8 of this UDC.
5. No fence shall exceed eight (8) feet in height except as for public utilities, public or private schools, public or private recreation facilities or industrial properties.
#20327 Effective June 1, 1995
6. No fence shall be constructed in such a manner or be of such design as to be
Full Breakdown
The Unified Development Code caps fence height at 8 feet countywide, with exceptions for public utilities, public or private schools, public or private recreation facilities, and industrial properties. In front yards, only picket fences up to 3 feet, chain-link up to 4 feet, wrought iron, and other decorative fences are allowed, and none may encroach on the sight triangle at intersections. Privacy fences on corner lots must sit behind the platted side-yard setback line facing the side street. Electric fences are barred except in the Agricultural district; barbed wire is allowed only in AG, RR, LI and HI districts.
Violations & Fines
Violations of the UDC are a county ordinance offense: up to one year in county jail, a fine up to $1,000, or both, with each day of noncompliance charged as a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply inside Kansas City?
Can I put up a privacy fence at my front property line?
Where is barbed wire allowed?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Jackson County
How Jackson County compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Compare Jackson County to another location·View the Missouri fence regulations overview
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