Montgomery County prohibits barbed wire, razor wire, and electric fences in residential zones under Ch 59. HOAs commonly restrict chain-link fencing. Approved materials include wood, vinyl, composite, ornamental metal, and masonry. Fence materials in historic districts require Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) approval.
Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance Ch 59 sets material restrictions for residential fences. Barbed wire and razor wire are prohibited in all residential zones. Electric fences are restricted to agricultural (AR) zones for livestock purposes. Approved residential materials include pressure-treated or cedar wood, vinyl/PVC, composite materials, ornamental aluminum or wrought iron, masonry/brick columns, and chain-link (though many HOAs restrict chain-link). In Montgomery County Historic Districts such as Kensington, Brookeville, and parts of Silver Spring, the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) must approve fence materials and design for compatibility with historic character. Fences in Special Protection Areas near streams should use materials that do not leach chemicals into waterways. Concrete block walls used as fences are classified as structures and may trigger additional building permit requirements. Temporary construction fencing must be removed within 30 days of project completion.
Prohibited materials (barbed/razor wire): immediate removal order. HPC non-compliance in historic district: citation and required modification. Unpermitted masonry fence wall: DPS stop-work order. HOA violations: per CC&R enforcement procedures.
Montgomery County, MD
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