Lakeville, MN Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Section 11-21-5 restricts what fences can be made of in Lakeville. Mesh HDPE plastic fencing and chicken-wire fencing are permitted only on a temporary basis — at active construction sites or for special events providing crowd or parking control — not as permanent residential fencing. In commercial districts, except for fences accessory to essential services, chain-link fences must be coated with integral-color vinyl and may not include vinyl, plastic, or metal slats woven into the fence. Barbed wire is tightly controlled: barbed-wire security arms are allowed only within the I-2 district, where the fence itself (measured without the security arm) must be at least six feet (6') tall, the security arm must angle only over the permit holder's own property without endangering the public, and security arms are prohibited within required front yards, in rear or side yards abutting public streets, or along property lines abutting residential use. Barbed-wire fences are otherwise permitted only on farms related to agriculture, except as the ordinance otherwise provides. Where security fences are allowed, they must be built so that no barbed ends are at the top. Because materials rules differ by zoning district, residential property owners should confirm acceptable materials with Lakeville Community Development before purchasing fencing.