Delray Beach, FL Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Delray Beach Land Development Regulations (LDR) Section 4.6.5 lists acceptable residential fence materials: pressure-treated or naturally decay-resistant wood (cypress, cedar), vinyl/PVC, powder-coated aluminum, wrought iron, masonry walls (CBS or stucco-finished), and engineered composite rated for 170 mph design wind per Florida Building Code (FBC) Chapter 16—Delray Beach is in the HVHZ-adjacent wind-borne debris region. Chain link is permitted in side and rear yards in single-family residential zones but is prohibited in front yards (street-facing) except at athletic fields, utility substations, and schools. Historic districts (Old School Square, Del-Ida Park, Nassau Park, Marina) require Historic Preservation Board (HPB) review under LDR 4.5.1 and typically limit fences to wood picket, metal picket, or masonry consistent with the district's period character. All fences over 6 feet require a building permit under FBC Section 105.1; fences 6 feet and under require a zoning permit. Salt-air corrosion (Delray Beach is a coastal city) makes galvanized-only steel a poor choice; aluminum or marine-grade stainless is recommended within ½ mile of the Atlantic.