Buncombe County, NC Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Residential materials
- Any common material
- Buffer fence
- Solid barrier, 8 feet
- Alternative buffers
- Evergreens or earth mounding
- Approval
- Board of adjustment/administrator
- Code section
- Buncombe 78-667
Summary
Buncombe County lets residents use any common fence material for a standard fence. Where screening between uses is required, a solid visual barrier fence, earth mounding, and evergreen planting can be combined to reach the required buffer height.
Earth mounding may be used in conjunction with planting or fencing to satisfy height requirements, but slopes shall not exceed one foot in height to two feet horizontal.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 37).
Full Breakdown
For ordinary fences, the Buncombe County Zoning Ordinance sets no material list, so wood, vinyl, metal, or masonry may be used within the height and sight-distance rules. Materials matter for required buffers under Section 78-667: acceptable buffering methods include at least two rows of evergreen trees, a 'solid visual barrier fence eight feet in height,' or earth mounding used with planting or fencing, subject to approval by the board of adjustment or zoning administrator. Buffer fences must be maintained in good repair. These material and buffer standards apply in the unincorporated county; incorporated towns set their own screening-material rules.
Violations & Fines
Using a buffer that does not achieve the required visual screen, or letting a required buffer fence fall into disrepair, is a violation subject to civil penalties under Section 78-583.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fence materials can I use in Buncombe County?
Can I combine a fence with landscaping for a buffer?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Buncombe County
Compare Buncombe County to another location·View the North Carolina fence regulations overview
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