Upper Darby, PA Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)

" This means the rails and support posts face your own yard, while the smooth, finished face is presented toward the neighboring property and the street, an aesthetic convention the Township has made part of its fence materials standards. The rule sits in § 550-39D alongside bans on barbed wire, metal spikes, razor ribbon and electrified fencing, and a requirement that any metal fabric fencing be at least 11-gauge and galvanized or otherwise rust-treated. Section 550-39A designates the Zoning Officer as responsible for enforcing all fence regulations in the chapter, including materials and orientation.

Fences found out of compliance are subject to the general violations provision at § 550-39K. A property owner who wants to deviate from the standard, for example because of an unusual lot layout, may apply to the Zoning Hearing Board for a variance under § 550-39I, following the procedures of the Zoning Code and the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code. The chapter was last amended 6-15-2022 by Ord. No. 3116 and 11-15-2023 by Res. No. 27-23, and it applies township-wide regardless of residence district.