Henrico County, VA Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Sight triangle
- Clear 30 in to 8 ft
- Driveway triangle
- 10-foot legs (single-family)
- Drainage
- Must not block or divert
- Utility easements
- Written authorization required
- Governing section
- Sec. 24-5403
Summary
Beyond height, Henrico's Chapter 24 requires fences to preserve sight lines, not block drainage, and stay clear of utility easements and fire hydrants. Fences must not obstruct vision between 30 inches and eight feet above grade within intersection sight-distance triangles (Sec. 24-5403).
Fences and walls must not obstruct vision at any height between 30 inches and eight feet above grade in the sight distance triangles ... E. A fence or wall must not block or divert natural drainage flow onto or off of any land. F. Fences and walls must not prevent immediate view of, or access to, fire hydrants.
Full Breakdown
Sec. 24-5403 sets location rules: fences may sit on the property line and within required yards, but must not block or divert natural drainage, must not sit in utility easements without written authorization, and must not block view of or access to fire hydrants. Within sight-distance triangles at street and driveway intersections, fences must not obstruct vision at any height between 30 inches and eight feet above grade (20-foot triangles at general intersections, 10-foot triangles at single-family driveways). Fences over 3'6" within 20 feet of a street right-of-way must be supplemented with landscaped screening (Sec. 24-5406.B).
Violations & Fines
Blocking sight lines, drainage, or hydrant access with a fence is a Chapter 24 misdemeanor violation, fine up to $1,000 with escalating fines, and the county may require removal (Sec. 24-7602).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my fence block the corner sight line in Henrico County?
Can I build a fence over a utility easement?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Henrico County
How Henrico County compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Compare Henrico County to another location·View the Virginia fence regulations overview
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