Chesapeake permits common fence materials including wood, vinyl, aluminum, chain link, and masonry in residential zones. Barbed wire and electric fencing are restricted in residential zones. Flood zone locations should use flood-resistant materials under FEMA guidelines.
Chesapeake does not regulate fence aesthetics at the city level for most residential zones. Permitted materials include pressure-treated wood, cedar, vinyl/PVC, aluminum, ornamental iron, chain link, and masonry or stone. Barbed wire, razor wire, and electric fencing are prohibited in residential zones and permitted only in agricultural, industrial, or specific commercial zones with proper height and warning signage. Chain link is permitted everywhere but may be prohibited or restricted by HOA covenants. In FEMA special flood hazard areas (AE, VE zones), fences should use materials and designs (such as open pickets or breakaway panels) that allow floodwater to pass without creating damming or debris hazards. Historic districts such as parts of South Norfolk may have material restrictions favoring wood and iron over vinyl and chain link.
Prohibited material in residential zone: 30-day cure notice, $100-$500 fine. Must remove and replace with compliant material.
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake does not impose gas leaf blower bans or specific decibel caps. Leaf blower use is regulated by the general noise ordinance (City Code Chapter 38) ...
Chesapeake, VA
Vehicle noise in Chesapeake includes restrictions on modified exhaust, squealing tires, and loud car audio. Sound systems audible at 50 feet can be cited und...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake treats persistent dog barking as a public nuisance under City Code Chapter 10 (Animals) and Chapter 38 (Noise). Barking that continues for 20 minu...
Chesapeake, VA
Amplified music in Chesapeake must not be plainly audible at 50 feet from the source between 10 PM and 7 AM (11 PM to 8 AM on weekends). Outdoor events with ...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake requires all dogs to be under physical restraint (leash or confinement) when off the owners property under City Code Chapter 10. Leash length is n...
Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake outdoor burning follows the Virginia 4 PM Burn Law (VA Code 10.1-1142). From Feb 15 to April 30, open burning within 300 feet of woodland is prohi...
See how Chesapeake's material restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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