Royal Oak Township, MI Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)

Section 32-635(e) of the Royal Oak Charter Township Code puts the neighbor rules in the general requirements for all fences. Subsection (e)(4) provides that no fence in any district can be erected where it would prevent, interfere, or unreasonably obstruct the use of adjacent property or the continued safe use of an existing driveway or other means of access to adjacent property. In enforcing that provision, the Building Official can require a fence to be set back a minimum distance from a driveway or property line.

Subsection (e)(6) governs location. No portion of a fence, landscape treatment or landscaping can project beyond the fence owner's property, and the Building Official can request an official survey if needed to identify the boundary. A fence can be built on the shared property line only if both homeowners sign a written consent form authorizing the fence on the shared line and submit it with the application. The Building Official must verify that the parties are the true and legal property owners of the subject property, renters cannot approve the construction of a fence, and proof of ownership can be required and is the applicant's responsibility to produce.

The definitions identify the responsible party: a fence owner is a person or entity who owns the property upon which a fence is erected. Under (e)(5), fences must be maintained in good condition, rotten or broken components must be replaced, repaired or removed, and the Building Official can issue orders to complete repairs. Failure to comply with a written notice is a violation and enforceable. Subsection (e)(2) puts the more finished side of the fence toward the exterior of the lot, which means the neighbor sees the finished face.

Decorative plant materials must be set back not less than two feet when adjacent to an adjoining property owner's driveway or sidewalk. The permit application needs a licensed surveyor's survey with all lot lines permanently staked, and an applicant can appeal a decision to the Zoning Board of Appeals.