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Davenport, IA Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Prohibited
Scrap/sheet metal, razor wire
Also Banned
Pallets, plywood, OSB, reused
Electric Fences
Livestock enclosures only
Chain-Link
Not in front setback
Code Section
DMC 17.09.030.H

Summary

Davenport's fence code bans scrap metal, corrugated and sheet metal, razor wire, pallets, plywood, OSB, and reused materials, plus electric fences except for livestock. Chain-link is prohibited in front and reverse-corner-side setbacks.

The following materials are prohibited in the construction of fences: i. Scrap metal. ii. Corrugated metal. iii. Sheet metal. iv. Electrical fences or any kind of electrically charged fences, unless used as part of livestock enclosures. v. Razor wire. vi. Pallets. vii. Oriented strand board (OSB). viii. Plywood. ix. Used or repurposed material.

Source: Davenport Municipal CodeView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4820400; v43 updated 2026-03-11; through 03-11-2026).

Full Breakdown

Municipal Code Section 17.09.030.H lists prohibited fence materials citywide: scrap metal, corrugated metal, sheet metal, electrical or electrically charged fences (unless part of a livestock enclosure), razor wire, pallets, oriented strand board, plywood, and used or repurposed material. Barbed wire, spikes, and pointed instruments are barred on fences unless specifically allowed by the City Code. In residential districts and several commercial districts, chain-link and similar wire is prohibited within front and reverse corner side setbacks. Every fence must be kept in good repair. Iowa's freeze-thaw winters make durable materials and deep footings important.

Violations & Fines

Fences built from prohibited materials draw a zoning code-compliance notice and may have to be replaced. Unresolved violations are enforced as municipal infractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build a fence out of pallets or scrap wood?
No. Davenport prohibits pallets, plywood, OSB, scrap and sheet metal, and used or repurposed material for fences under DMC 17.09.030.H.
Is an electric or barbed-wire fence allowed?
Electric fences are allowed only for livestock enclosures. Barbed wire and other pointed materials are prohibited on fences unless specifically permitted by the City Code.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Davenport

Height LimitsSome RestrictionsNeighbor Fence RulesFew RestrictionsFence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsRetaining WallsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Exotic PetsHeavy RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Weed OrdinancesSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree TrimmingSome RestrictionsSign Regulations: Holiday DisplaysFew RestrictionsSign Regulations: Garage Sale SignsSome Restrictions

All Davenport rules

Compare Davenport to another location·View the Iowa fence regulations overview

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