Montgomery County, OH Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)

Ohio counties do not directly regulate residential fences in unincorporated areas; under R.C. Chapter 519, individual townships adopt zoning resolutions that may include fence rules. Montgomery County Townships - including Washington, Miami, and Harrison - have their own zoning departments and resolutions. The City of Dayton Zoning Code (Ord. 30515-05, effective August 1, 2006) sets the most-cited rules in the county seat. Permit thresholds: fences 6 feet or less in height do not require a Building Permit, but ALL fences require a Zoning Permit regardless of height. Fences taller than 6 feet require a Building Permit in addition. Front yard standards in Dayton: maximum height of 42 inches (3.5 ft) with a minimum 25% transparency requirement, satisfied by picket fences, wrought iron, or similar open designs; solid privacy fences are not permitted in front yards. An additional 2 feet of height may be added if the upper portion is latticed providing at least 50% transparency. Chain link fencing is not permitted in front yards on residential lots. Side and rear yards typically allow up to 6 feet without a Building Permit. Corner lots and properties on collector streets carry vision-clearance triangles that may further restrict fence height near intersections and driveways. Other Montgomery County cities (Kettering, Centerville, Oakwood, Huber Heights) adopt similar 4 ft front / 6 ft rear height patterns, but specific zoning permit thresholds vary; always confirm with the local zoning office. Ohio R.C. 971 governs partition fences (line fences) between agricultural neighbors but does not set height limits.