Idaho Falls, ID Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)

Building a compliant fence in Idaho Falls involves three things: a permit, the front-yard/visibility height rules, and any special barrier rules. First, the city's FAQ states a $5 fence permit is required for new fence construction so staff can verify compliance. Second, under Comprehensive Zoning Section 11-4-8(C), no fence, wall, or hedge over three feet (3') may sit within fifteen feet (15') of a front lot line contiguous to a street, and Section 11-4-7(A) keeps fences and walls to three feet within the clear-view triangles (30 feet from intersecting lot lines at corners; 15 feet back at alleys and driveways).

A chain-link fence without slats is not treated as sight-obscuring. Third, special-purpose fences carry their own rules: swimming pools must be 'completely surrounded by a fence of at least five feet (5') in height with no openings wider than thirty-six (36) square inches' (Section 11-4-8(D)), and certain commercial/storage and screening situations require sight-obscuring or opaque fences six to eight feet (6'-8') tall. Title 11 does not set a general numeric height cap for ordinary interior side and rear yard fences. Confirm placement relative to easements and your exact lot conditions with the Building Division.