Howard County, MD Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Closed fence examples
- Board-on-board, privacy, stockade
- Closed threshold
- 50% or less open
- Masonry walls
- Count as closed fences
- Fence area
- Bottom to top, excludes posts
- Section
- Reg. 128.0.A.9.a.(1)(b)
Summary
Howard County defines a closed fence as board-on-board, privacy or stockade, or any fence 50% or less visibly open, including masonry walls. The open-vs-closed distinction, not the material name, decides which height exemptions apply.
Closed fences which include board on board, privacy or stockade fences, or any other fences in which 50% or less of the fence area is visibly open. Masonry walls that serve the same purpose as a closed fence are considered closed fences.
Full Breakdown
Under Zoning Regulations Section 128.0.A.9, a closed fence includes board on board, privacy or stockade fences, or any fence in which 50% or less of the fence area is visibly open; masonry walls serving the same purpose count as closed. Fence area is measured from the bottom to the top of the fence section, including supporting stringers but not the posts above or below. Closed fences over three feet up to six feet are exempt only in side or rear yards, while open fences up to six feet get the exemption more broadly. Solid privacy fencing is therefore the most tightly regulated form.
Violations & Fines
A closed fence over six feet, or a closed fence over three feet placed in a front yard, exceeds the exemptions and must meet full setback and bulk rules or be corrected.
Frequently Asked Questions
What counts as a closed (privacy) fence?
How is fence area measured?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Howard County
Compare Howard County to another location·View the Maryland fence regulations overview
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