Stratford, CT Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Section 6.1.5(3) of the Stratford Zoning Regulations, adopted by the Zoning Commission and effective 1-1-2025, contains the material prohibition: barbed wire, razor wire or other similar types of fencing are specifically prohibited in all districts. Two exceptions are printed. The fencing is allowed if erected in conjunction with a bona fide farm, or if permission is specifically granted by the Zoning Commission. No other exception appears in the paragraph, so a homeowner who wants barbed or razor wire needs the Commission's permission.

Section 6.1.5(5) sets a positive material rule for one boundary condition. All rear and side lot lines adjacent to an RS or RM District shall be fenced to a height of six feet above finished grade, and the fence shall be a solid wood or vinyl fence providing 100% privacy. The same paragraph requires the fence to comply with Section 6.1 and to be properly maintained at all times. The Commission modifies this requirement if it determines the fence will negatively impact or obscure existing views of coastal waters or inland wetlands or tidal wetlands in conflict with the Coastal Management Act.

The prohibition reaches every district, residential, commercial and industrial alike. The material rule in paragraph (5) is narrower and attaches to lot lines next to RS and RM districts, which are the residential zones.

Before any fence goes up, Section 6.1.5(4) requires a zoning permit, with a fee in an amount prescribed by the Zoning Commission, to ensure compliance with all fence regulations. The permit review is where a material question gets raised with the Zoning Office.