Flint, MI Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Rule
- Least restrictive zone's fence rule applies
- Applies to
- Adjoining properties in different zones
- Doesn't depend on
- Which neighbor built the fence
- Citation
- Flint City Code § 17-4(e)
Summary
When two adjoining Flint properties carry different zoning, the fence rule on that shared property line is set by whichever zone's requirement is least restrictive, no matter who builds the fence.
When adjoining properties differ in zoned use, the requirements of a fence on that property line may be that of the least restrictive, regardless of the party erecting the fence.
(f) No fence shall be charged or connected with an electrical current in such a manner as to transmit said current to persons, animals, or things which might intentionally or accidentally come in contact with it.
(g) Fences of greater heights than heretofore permitted may be constructed for special purposes such as play areas, tennis courts, industrial complexes, sports complexes etc., when approved by the Director of Building and Safety Inspection.
(h) No building wall, retaining wall, or similar structure shall be considered to be a part of a fence. Said walls shall be constructed in accordance with the requirements of the Building Code. (Ord. 1375, passed 4-8-1957; Ord. 1997, passed 9-11-1967; Ord. 2385, passed 3- 19-1973; Ord. 2469, passed 11-25-1974)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2016 Code: Local legislation current through Ordinance 3821, passed 3-1-2012).
Full Breakdown
§ 17-4(e) of the Flint City Code addresses fences built on a line between two properties in different zoning districts: for example, a residential lot next to a commercially zoned parcel. Rather than defaulting to the stricter rule, the code applies the least restrictive of the two zones' fence requirements to that shared property line, and it does not matter which neighbor actually built or paid for the fence. This sits alongside § 17-6, which lets the Building and Safety Inspections Director require a licensed survey to establish the lot line itself before a fence dispute over materials or height can be resolved.
Violations & Fines
There's no separate penalty for the zoning-differential rule itself, but a fence built to the wrong, more restrictive standard is a § 17-4 violation and a municipal civil infraction under § 17-99.
Frequently Asked Questions
My property and my neighbor's are zoned differently: whose fence rule applies?
Can the city make me survey my property line before building a fence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Flint
Compare Flint to another location·View the Michigan fence regulations overview
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