Fort Lauderdale, FL Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Section 47-19.5 of the ULDR sets material and finish standards for fences and walls. Barbed wire fencing is generally prohibited under subsection H, with three narrow exceptions: temporary barbed wire is allowed on a construction site with an active building permit so long as it does not obstruct a public easement or right-of-way; barbed wire may be used in the I, U, B-2, and B-3 zoning districts up to 10 feet high where outdoor storage of goods is a permitted accessory use, except where the use abuts residential property; and in no case may barbed wire be visible from any street. For walls (subsection D), walls must be finished on both sides with materials meeting industry standards such as painted stucco, prefinished block, or other prefinished materials, must be compatible with existing buildings, and must include finishing features such as changes in texture or color, capstones, decorative painting, or bands of tile. For fences (subsection E), required fences may not be constructed of chain link unless specifically permitted and must be a minimum of 5 feet high; all fences must be finished on the side facing the neighboring property or right-of-way, and when both sides are visible from a right-of-way, both sides must be finished. Fences and walls in the required street yard must also avoid a continuous straight line by using offsets or changes in direction to break up monotony.