Fence heights in The Bronx are governed by the NYC Zoning Resolution §23-44 and §23-451. Residential front-yard fences are limited to 4 feet; rear and side-yard fences to 6 feet. Corner lots must maintain visibility triangles. Fences over 6 feet require DOB permits.
Under NYC Zoning Resolution §23-44, fences in residential districts (R1-R5) may not exceed 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards without a DOB permit and special permit review. Higher-density districts (R6-R10) follow similar limits but may allow 8-foot perimeter walls for cellar entrances. Fences installed on the property line are subject to party-wall common law. Fences over 10 feet erected to annoy neighbors are spite fences actionable under NY RPAPL §843. Bronx landmark districts (Riverdale Historic District, Longwood Historic District) have LPC review for any fencing changes.
Excess-height fence without permit: $1,250-$2,500 DOB violation plus correction order. Landmark district fence without CofA: $5,000+ LPC penalty. Spite fence: civil damages per RPAPL §843.
See how Bronx County's height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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