Cumberland County, NC Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Solid fence test
- 25% or less clear vision
- Open fence
- More than 25% open
- Allowed materials
- Wood, vinyl, masonry, wire
- Drives
- Applicable height limit
- Code section
- County ZO 1102 C
Summary
Cumberland County classifies a fence by openness: a 'solid' fence or wall is one whose openings pass no more than 25 percent clear vision and airflow, and all others are 'open' fences. This classification, not the material itself, drives the height limits.
A solid fence or wall is defined as one in which the openings through which clear vision and the free passage of air from one side to the other does not exceed 25 percent of the fence or wall. All others are open fences or walls.
Full Breakdown
Cumberland County Zoning Ordinance defines fence type in Section 1102 C: 'A solid fence or wall is defined as one in which the openings through which clear vision and the free passage of air from one side to the other does not exceed 25 percent of the fence or wall. All others are open fences or walls.' Materials such as wood, vinyl, masonry, and chain-link are all allowed for general fencing, but a mostly-closed material (like a privacy-board or masonry wall) is 'solid' and capped at three feet in a front yard or seven feet in a side/rear yard, while a more open material (like widely spaced pickets or wire) is 'open' with no height cap.
Violations & Fines
Misclassifying a solid fence to exceed height limits is a zoning violation; a $500 civil penalty accrues $500 per day until corrected (Section 1704).
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Cumberland County decide if my fence is 'solid'?
Are any fence materials banned?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Cumberland County
Compare Cumberland County to another location·View the North Carolina fence regulations overview
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