Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Wichita, KS Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Residential ban
Electric and barbed-wire fences prohibited
Also banned everywhere
Spikes, broken glass on fences
Commercial/industrial
Barbed wire OK if 72" above ground
Penalty
Misdemeanor under Sec. 1.04.060

Summary

Wichita bans electrically charged and barbed-wire fences in residential zoning districts, plus spikes or broken glass on any fence or retaining wall.

(a)Electrically charged fences and barbed-wire fences are prohibited in all residential zoning districts except as is required by Section 5.34.020 of this code which relates to fencing at borrow pits, except for the exceptions allowed pursuant to Section 6.12.080 of this code, or in cases where the superintendent of central inspection determines that a barbed-wire fence is needed to protect the general public from an extreme hazard that might endanger life and limb if an adequate fence is not in place The use of sharp spikes, broken glass and similar material on fences and retaining walls is prohibited.(b)Barbed wire shall be allowed in commercial and industrial zoning districts provided it is installed at least seventy-two inches above the ground.

Source: Wichita-Sedgwick County Unified Zoning CodeView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 35).

Full Breakdown

City code Chapter 5.35 prohibits electrically charged fences and barbed-wire fences in all residential zoning districts, with narrow exceptions for borrow-pit fencing, certain animal-holding fences, or when the superintendent of central inspection finds barbed wire necessary against an extreme hazard. Sharp spikes and broken glass on fences or retaining walls are banned citywide, in any district. Barbed wire is allowed in commercial and industrial districts if installed at least 72 inches above ground.

Violations & Fines

Violating Chapter 5.35 is a misdemeanor punishable under Wichita Municipal Code Sec. 1.04.060.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I put barbed wire on my residential fence in Wichita?
No. City code bans electrically charged and barbed-wire fences in residential zoning districts, with only narrow hazard-related exceptions.
Is barbed wire ever allowed in Wichita?
Yes, in commercial and industrial zoning districts, but only if installed at least 72 inches above the ground.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Wichita

All Wichita rules

Compare Wichita to another location·View the Kansas fence regulations overview

Get notified when Material Restrictions in Wichita, KS changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.