Southaven, MS Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

DeSoto County, MS regulates fence materials through municipal zoning ordinances adopted under MS Code Ann. §17-1-3. Southaven Code of Ordinances Chapter 102 and Olive Branch Code Appendix A permit standard residential materials: pressure-treated pine, cedar, vinyl, chain link, aluminum, wrought iron, and ornamental steel. Hernando's Unified Development Code and Horn Lake's zoning ordinance generally restrict chain link fencing in front yards or visible from a public right-of-way in residential districts, while allowing it in side and rear yards. Barbed wire, razor wire, and concertina wire are restricted to agricultural zones, industrial districts, or commercial properties over a minimum size threshold, consistent with MS Code Ann. §69-13-1 (livestock fencing) allowances. Electric fences are generally prohibited in residential zones except for low-voltage pet containment systems that must be invisible from public view. Mississippi's humid subtropical climate accelerates rot in untreated softwoods, so pressure-treated pine (typical 15-20 year life), cedar, vinyl, and composite materials dominate the residential market. Brick and masonry walls are permitted but usually require an engineered permit when over 4 feet. HOAs in Cherokee Valley, Plantation Lakes, Magnolia Gate, Bridgetown, and similar master-planned communities routinely impose material standards stricter than city code, often requiring wood or wrought iron and banning chain link entirely. Recycled or non-standard materials such as pallets or corrugated metal panels typically require special zoning approval.