San Antonio, TX Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Front Yard (Solid)
- 3 ft max
- Front Yard (Open)
- 4 ft max
- Max Height
- Up to 8 ft (conditions)
- Permit
- Required (6-month validity)
Summary
San Antonio UDC §35-514 limits solid front-yard fences to 3 feet and open/decorative fences to 4–5 feet in front yards. Rear and side yards allow up to 8 feet under certain conditions. Historic districts require HDRC approval. Permits are required for all fences except exempt repairs.
Sec. 202.022. SWIMMING POOL ENCLOSURES. (a) In this section, "swimming pool enclosure" means a fence that:(1) surrounds a water feature, including a swimming pool or spa;(2) consists of transparent mesh or clear panels set in metal frames;(3) is not more than six feet in height; and(4) is designed to not be climbable.(b) A property owners' association:(1) may not adopt or enforce a provision in a dedicatory instrument that prohibits or restricts a property owner from installing on the property owner's property a swimming pool enclosure that conforms to applicable state or local safety requirements; and(2) may adopt and enforce a provision in a dedicatory instrument establishing limitations related to the appearance of a swimming p
Full Breakdown
San Antonio UDC §35-514 sets fence height limits: solid fences (wood, vinyl, masonry) in front yards are limited to 3 feet; predominantly open fences (chain link, wrought iron) in front yards are limited to 4 feet. Fences may be erected up to 8 feet under UDC 35-514(c)(2) conditions. Multifamily properties (25+ units) may have 6-foot front-yard fences of wrought iron or similar material. Corner lots require a 25-foot vision triangle from the curb, and driveways/alleys require a 15-foot vision triangle, with no fence exceeding 3 feet in these areas. All fences require a building permit except work exempted under Chapter 10 §10-6(e). Permits are valid for 6 months. No residential fence inspection is required. Historic districts require Historic Preservation Officer compliance review before permit issuance.
Violations & Fines
Fence without permit: citation. Non-compliant height: removal or modification required. Fine $100–$2,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
How tall can my fence be in San Antonio?
What is the maximum fence height for front yards in San Antonio?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Antonio
How San Antonio compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Antonio to another location·View the Texas fence regulations overview
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Height Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Bexar County handle height limits.