Raleigh, NC Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)

Under the Raleigh Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), Section 7.2.5 (Fences and Walls), residential fences are limited to a maximum height of 4 feet in any front yard or street-side yard on corner lots, and 6 feet in interior side and rear yards. Measurements are taken from the natural grade. Fences or walls exceeding 6 feet in height anywhere on a residential lot require a building permit; fences over 7 feet also trigger engineering review. In historic overlay districts (such as Oakwood, Boylan Heights, and Blount Street), fence design, material, and height are reviewed by the Raleigh Historic Development Commission for a Certificate of Appropriateness. On corner lots, fences within the sight triangle formed by intersecting streets must not exceed 2 to 3 feet in height to preserve driver visibility. Retaining walls are measured separately and have their own height standards. Fencing around swimming pools must meet pool-barrier requirements regardless of yard location. Violations are enforced by the Zoning Enforcement division and can result in notices of violation and daily civil penalties. Property owners should always confirm property lines with a survey before installing a fence.