Baltimore County, MD Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Front yard max
- 42 inches (3.5 feet)
- Side/rear max
- 6 feet
- With setback
- Up to 10 feet
- Commercial max
- 12 feet
- Permit required
- Over 42 inches
Summary
In unincorporated Baltimore County, residential fences may be up to 42 inches (3.5 feet) in a front yard and 6 feet in a side or rear yard. A fence may reach 10 feet if set back 2 feet horizontally per vertical foot above 6 feet.
1. Front Yards: The maximum height permitted for any residential occupancy fence shall be 42 inches above normal grade in a front yard. 2. Side and Rear Yards: The maximum height permitted for any residential occupancy fence shall be six feet... A fence may be erected up to ten feet high in a side or rear yard when the fence is set back from the property line a horizontal distance of two feet for every vertical foot of height in excess of six feet.
Full Breakdown
Baltimore County Building Code Part 122.1 sets residential fence heights: 42 inches maximum in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards. Height above 6 feet is allowed up to 10 feet only when the fence is set back from the property line 2 feet horizontally for every vertical foot over 6 feet. Commercial fences may be built up to 12 feet (Part 122.2). At street corners a 3-foot sight-triangle limit applies. Any fence over 42 inches requires a Baltimore County permit. These are countywide rules for unincorporated areas, not Baltimore City.
Violations & Fines
Over-height or unpermitted fences are code violations enforced by Permits, Approvals and Inspections; owner must lower, remove, or obtain a waiver/permit, and may face citations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can my backyard fence be?
Why is my front fence limited to 42 inches?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Baltimore County
How Baltimore County compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Compare Baltimore County to another location·View the Maryland fence regulations overview
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