Billings, MT Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- BMCC Sec. 27-1209(E)
- Banned materials
- Railroad ties, pallets, tires, rubble
- Permit trigger
- Fences over 36 inches tall
- Barbed wire
- Only atop 8-ft industrial fences
Summary
Billings restricts residential and commercial fences to common materials like wood, brick, chain-link, and vinyl, and bans railroad ties, pallets, tires, and rubble.
All fences in residential, and commercial zoning districts shall be constructed from materials which are commonly used for fencing.(1)Commonly used fence materials include wood including wood composites, brick, stone, split railing, chain-link, wire, vinyl, ornamental iron work, and corrugated or uncorrugated metal panels framed in wood, vinyl, composite, brick or stone. Metal panels shall be coated with a non-reflective material.(2)Prohibited materials: Railroad ties, intact wood pallets, tires, rubble or reflective metal panels.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 66 Update 2).
Full Breakdown
Under BMCC Sec. 27-1209, fences, walls, and hedges in residential and commercial zones must use commonly accepted fencing materials: wood (including composites), brick, stone, split rail, chain-link, wire, vinyl, ornamental ironwork, or coated metal panels. Metal panels must be non-reflective. Railroad ties, intact wood pallets, tires, and rubble are flatly prohibited. Salvaged material is allowed only if it matches the look of standard materials, is properly built, and stays in good repair. Industrial-zone fences follow a separate materials list and permit barbed wire atop 8-foot fences.
Violations & Fines
Non-compliant material triggers a code enforcement notice from the planning division requiring the fence be rebuilt or removed; a permit is also required for any fence over 36 inches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a fence out of old railroad ties in Billings?
Is chain-link fencing allowed in Billings?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Billings
Compare Billings to another location·View the Montana fence regulations overview
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