Paterson, NJ Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Front yard max
- 4 feet
- Side/rear yard max
- 6 feet
- Corner sight triangle
- 30 in., 20-ft legs
- Governing section
- § 500-3.13, Article V (2016)
Summary
Paterson caps residential fences at 4 feet in the front yard and 6 feet in side and rear yards, with a 30-inch limit inside the corner-lot sight triangle.
No fence shall be in excess of 4 feet in height in the front yard and a maximum of 6 feet in height in the side and rear yard in any district... On any corner lot, no fence, structure, planting or shrubbery over 30 inches in height above the level of the pavement shall be erected or maintained within the triangle formed by the intersecting street lines and a straight line adjoining said street lines at points which are 20 feet distant from their point of intersection... This does not apply to intersecting street lines whose angle is more than 135 degrees.
Full Breakdown
Under § 500-3.13 of Paterson's Zoning and Land Development Ordinance (Article V, certified current through the City Council's February 9, 2016 zoning update), fences may not exceed 4 feet in the front yard or 6 feet in the side and rear yards in any zoning district. On corner lots, nothing over 30 inches, fence, planting, or structure, may stand inside the sight triangle formed by points 20 feet from the intersecting street lines, unless the streets meet at more than 135 degrees. Fences erected before the ordinance may stay at their existing height if repaired, but a fence rebuilt from total loss must meet current limits. Confirm any recent amendment with the Zoning Officer.
Violations & Fines
Building without a compliant fence is enforced by the Zoning Officer; noncompliant fences can be ordered lowered or removed, and a related Zoning Permit can be denied.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a 6-foot fence in my front yard in Paterson?
What is the corner-lot sight triangle rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Paterson
How Paterson compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Compare Paterson to another location·View the New Jersey fence regulations overview
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