Paterson, NJ Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Front yard
- no solid fence
- Sheet metal fencing
- prohibited
- Front fence openness
- min. 60% open
- Razor coil
- banned citywide
Summary
Paterson bars solid or sheet-metal fencing in front yards, front fences must be at least 60% open, and bans razor coil on any fence, anywhere in the city.
No solid fence shall be erected in the front yard setback area as established by this Ordinance. Solid, perforated, corrugated or flat sheet metal shall be prohibited for use as a fencing material. Fences in the front yard setback area shall have a minimum of 60% open construction... The use of razor coil on fencing is prohibited.
Full Breakdown
Under § 500-3.13(B) of the certified 2016 Article V zoning ordinance, no solid fence may be erected in a front-yard setback, and solid, perforated, corrugated, or flat sheet metal is barred as a fencing material there: front fences must be at least 60% open. Subsection H bans razor coil on fencing citywide, in every district and yard. Chain link, wood picket, wrought iron and similar open-style fencing remain the practical options for a Paterson front yard. An earlier 2006 design-standards article (§ 400-2.8, unverified) also discourages barbed wire near residential uses, but the enforceable citywide ban in the certified ordinance covers razor coil and sheet metal.
Violations & Fines
The Zoning Officer can order a noncompliant fence altered or removed; a solid front-yard fence or razor coil anywhere can also hold up a Zoning or Construction Permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put up a solid privacy fence facing the street in Paterson?
Is razor wire allowed on a Paterson fence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Paterson
Compare Paterson to another location·View the New Jersey fence regulations overview
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