Dallas, TX Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Front Yard Max
- 4 feet
- Side/Rear Yard Max
- 9 feet
- Code Section
- §51A-4.602
- Over 9 Feet
- PE design + Board approval required
Summary
Dallas Development Code Section 51A-4.602 limits residential fences to 4 feet in the front yard and 9 feet in the side and rear yards. Fences over 9 feet require a Special Exception from the Board of Adjustment and engineering certification.
Sec. 202.023. SECURITY MEASURES. (a) This section does not apply to:(1) a condominium as defined by Section 81.002 or 82.003; or(2) a master mixed-use property owners' association subject to Chapter 215.(b) Except as provided by Subsection (c), a property owners' association may not adopt or enforce a restrictive covenant that prevents a property owner from building or installing security measures, including but not limited to a security camera, motion detector, or perimeter fence.(c) This section does not prohibit a property owners' association from:(1) prohibiting the installation of a security camera by a property owner in a place other than the property owner's private property;(2) regulating the type of fencing that a property owner may install;(3) prohibiting the placement of fenc...
Full Breakdown
Section 51A-4.602 of the Dallas Development Code establishes fence height limits. In all residential districts except multifamily, a fence may not exceed 4 feet above grade in the required front yard. In side and rear yards, fences may not exceed 9 feet above grade. In single family districts, a fence panel with a surface area less than 50% open may not be located less than 5 feet from the front lot line. A fence over 9 feet in height is considered a structure and must be designed by a Texas registered Professional Engineer with sealed and signed plans. Board of Adjustment approval is required for a Fence Height Special Exception.
Violations & Fines
Fences exceeding height limits without approval are code violations. The city may require removal or modification. Fines apply for non-compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can a fence be in Dallas?
Can I build a fence taller than 9 feet in Dallas?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas
How Dallas compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Dallas to another location·View the Texas fence regulations overview
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Height Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle height limits.