Saint Paul, MN Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Saint Paul's fence regulations under Sec. 60.209 allow a range of common fencing materials including wood, chain link, vinyl, ornamental iron, and composite materials in residential and commercial zones. The most notable restriction applies to barbed wire: it may only consist of a maximum of 3 strands installed on top of a fence that is at least 6 feet tall (measured to the bottom strand of barbed wire). Barbed wire is prohibited in residential zoning districts, with exceptions only for police facilities, correctional institutions, and similar public safety uses. Razor wire and concertina wire follow similar restrictions. Electric fences for containment of livestock are limited to agricultural zoning districts. In historic districts, the Heritage Preservation Commission may impose additional material requirements to maintain the architectural character of the neighborhood. For pool barriers, the fence must be obscuring (not see-through), which effectively limits materials to solid wood, vinyl, or masonry rather than open chain link.