St. Clair Shores, MI Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)

Macomb County does not adopt zoning ordinances for residential properties. The Michigan Zoning Enabling Act (MCL 125.3101 et seq., effective 2006) delegates all zoning - fence heights, accessory structures, setbacks, and lot coverage - to municipal planning commissions and local zoning ordinances. Michigan has no statewide fence height limit and no statutory 'spite fence' law (common-law nuisance principles apply). Macomb County's 27 municipalities each set their own rules. Most follow the common Michigan suburban pattern: front yard fences limited to 3-4 feet (often required to be open or decorative), side and rear yard fences limited to 6 feet. Sterling Heights Zoning Ordinance Article 7 generally limits fences to 4 feet in front yards and 6 feet in side and rear yards, with permits issued by the Building Department. Warren City Code Chapter 16 (Buildings and Building Regulations) requires a fence permit and follows similar height limits. Most Macomb municipalities require a zoning/building permit and require the finished side to face the neighboring property. Pool barriers must comply with the Michigan Residential Code (based on IRC), which requires a minimum 48-inch barrier with self-closing, self-latching gates and a maximum 4-inch opening. Boundary disputes are civil matters under Michigan common law.