Burlington, VT Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)

Burlington fence rules are set by the Comprehensive Development Ordinance (CDO) administered by the Department of Permitting and Inspections under authority of 24 V.S.A. Chapter 117 (Municipal and Regional Planning and Development). Fences and free-standing walls placed within the First Lot Layer (front yard area between the street and the principal building) cannot exceed 4 feet in height. Fences in the Second and Third Lot Layers (side and rear yards) are capped at 8 feet unless a stricter limit applies under the parcel's Form District or Frontage Type. At corner lots and driveways, the Clear Sight Triangle requires fence height to remain 3 feet or less above curb height to preserve visibility for vehicles and pedestrians. A zoning permit is required before installing or replacing a fence, with applications filed through the Department of Permitting and Inspections; finished side must face outward toward the neighbor or street. Fences in historic design review districts and along designated frontage types face additional material and design review under CDO Article 5 and Article 6. Variances for greater heights require a hearing before the Development Review Board. Vermont state authority for these municipal fence and zoning controls flows from 24 V.S.A. §4412 (required provisions of zoning bylaws) and 24 V.S.A. Ch. 117. Property-line fences must sit fully on the owner's parcel; encroachment disputes are civil matters under Vermont common law.