Travis County does not restrict fence materials in unincorporated areas. Wood, metal, masonry, chain link, and wire are all allowed. No countywide ban on barbed wire, electric, or chain link. HOA and subdivision deed restrictions control aesthetics.
Travis County has no zoning authority (TX Local Gov't Code §231.001 et seq.), so fence material regulation in unincorporated areas defaults to TX Property Code §§26.001–26.003 (boundary fence disputes) and deed restrictions. Ranch and acreage properties near Bee Cave, Spicewood, Manor, and Volente commonly use barbed wire, field fence, t-post wire, and hog panel. Chain link and welded wire are allowed throughout. TX Senate Bill 1588 (2021) prevents HOAs from banning perimeter fences entirely but allows HOAs to regulate appearance and materials. Pool enclosure fences must follow the TX-adopted International Residential Code: chain link is prohibited as the sole pool barrier for new construction; gates must self-close and self-latch. Inside Austin city limits, City Code §25-2 restricts barbed wire and electric fences in residential zones.
No county violation. Pool fence code violations: Travis County Development Services stop-work order and permit denial. HOA violations enforced civilly through deed restriction lawsuits.
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See how Travis County's material restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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