Sterling Heights, MI Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)

Under Sterling Heights Zoning Ordinance §25.07, residential fence heights are capped at 4 feet in any front yard and 6 feet in side and rear yards. Fence height is measured from the finished grade at the base of the fence. Where lot grades differ between properties, the height is measured from the higher side.

Any fence taller than 4 feet requires a building permit from the Building Division before installation. Applications must include a site plan showing property lines, setbacks, and fence location. The vision-clearance triangle requirement prohibits fences taller than 30 inches within 25 feet of the intersection of any two streets on a corner lot, preserving driver and pedestrian sight lines.

Prohibited materials in residential zones include barbed wire, razor wire, electrified fences, and chain-link with sharp barbed tops. These may be allowed in industrial zones with special-use approval. The "finished side rule" requires that the smooth or finished face of any solid privacy fence face the adjoining neighbor or street; the structural side with posts and rails faces the installing owner. Pool enclosures must additionally meet the 48-inch minimum self-latching, self-closing requirement under the Michigan Building Code.