Dakota County, MN Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- County rule
- None; city-regulated
- Enabling statute
- Minn. Stat. 462.357
- Lakeville rear/side max
- 6 feet
- Lakeville front max
- 4 feet
- Apple Valley rear/side max
- 8 feet
Summary
Dakota County MN has no countywide fence-height ordinance. Each city sets its own limits under Minn. Stat. 462.357. Typical suburban rule: about 6 feet in rear/side yards and 3.5 to 4 feet in front yards.
A municipality may by ordinance regulate on the earth's surface, in the air space above the surface, and in subsurface areas, the location, height, width, bulk, type of foundation, number of stories, size of buildings and other structures, the percentage of lot which may be occupied, the size of yards and other open spaces.
Full Breakdown
In nearly-fully-incorporated Dakota County, fences are regulated by your city, not the county. Minnesota Statute 462.357 gives municipalities the power to regulate the height of structures and yards. Examples: Lakeville limits fences to 6 feet in interior side and rear yards and 4 feet in the front yard (with 75% open construction). Apple Valley allows up to 8 feet in rear and side yards but only 3.5 feet in front yards. Check your specific city code and zoning district, since limits vary by lot type and district.
Violations & Fines
Enforced by city zoning/code officials; an over-height fence may be ordered lowered or removed. Penalties are set by city ordinance, typically a misdemeanor or administrative citation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Dakota County set a fence height limit?
How tall can a front-yard fence be?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dakota County
How Dakota County compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Compare Dakota County to another location·View the Minnesota fence regulations overview
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