Des Moines regulates fence materials and height through Chapter 135 (Planning and Design). Residential fences may not exceed 6 feet in side or rear yards or 3 feet in front yards. Barbed wire, concertina wire, and electric wire are prohibited in residential zones.
Chapter 135, Article 7 (§ 135-7.11) of the Des Moines Planning and Design Ordinance (Ord. No. 15,816) sets fence standards citywide. Maximum height is 6 feet in rear and side yards and 3 feet in front yards. Permitted materials include wood, vinyl (PVC), aluminum, wrought iron, and chain link. Barbed wire, concertina wire, and electric fencing are prohibited in residential districts. A zoning permit is required for fences exceeding 3 feet or chain-link/wire fences exceeding 4 feet. All fences must comply with vision-clearance triangle requirements. Zoning Enforcement (515-283-4207) handles permit review.
Violations are handled by Des Moines Zoning Enforcement. Unpermitted or non-compliant fences are subject to stop-work orders, removal orders, and civil fines up to $500 per day.
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See how Des Moines's material restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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