Shelby County, TN Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)
Key Facts
- Approved materials
- Brick, stone, wood, iron
- Decorative metal
- Unlocks 8-foot front
- Chain link
- Not decorative metal
- Masonry walls
- Must allow water flow
- Rule section
- UDC 4.6.7E(1)
Summary
The Unified Development Code requires fences in unincorporated Shelby County to use high-quality materials such as decorative block, brick, stone, masonry, stucco, treated wood, and wrought iron, with coated chain link allowed only where permitted.
Fences and walls must be constructed of high quality materials, such as decorative blocks, brick, stone, masonry panels, stucco, treated wood and wrought iron; and, where permitted, vinyl-coated chain link.
Full Breakdown
Under the Memphis and Shelby County Unified Development Code Sub-Section 4.6.7E(1), fences and walls must be constructed of high-quality materials, including decorative blocks, brick, stone, masonry panels, stucco, treated wood, and wrought iron, plus vinyl-coated chain link where permitted. Decorative metal such as wrought iron unlocks the higher eight-foot front-yard height under Sub-Section 4.6.7C, while chain link and metal panel fencing are expressly excluded from the decorative-metal category. Masonry walls must allow the flow of water from one side to the other (E(2)). Coated chain link must be PVC color-coated black, dark green, or dark brown and combined with an evergreen landscape screen. These standards apply throughout unincorporated Shelby County; incorporated cities set their own requirements.
Violations & Fines
Building a fence from a non-approved or low-quality material where the UDC requires high-quality construction violates Sub-Section 4.6.7E(1). The Division of Planning and Development may require the fence to be rebuilt with a compliant material and assess civil penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fence materials does Shelby County approve?
Does wrought iron get extra height?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Shelby County
Compare Shelby County to another location·View the Tennessee fence regulations overview
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