Boston requires a building permit for fences over 6 feet and a Zoning Board of Appeal variance for fences over 6 feet in residential districts under the Boston Zoning Code.
The Boston Zoning Code Article 10 and the Inspectional Services Department enforce fence height limits. Fences up to 6 feet on side and rear lot lines and up to 4 feet in front yards are allowed by right with no permit for one- and two-family homes. Anything taller requires an ISD building permit, and fences above 6 feet need ZBA variance or conditional use approval. Historic districts (Beacon Hill Historic District, Back Bay Architectural District, South End Landmark District, Bay State Road) require approval from the relevant historic commission before installation. Retaining walls and masonry walls over 4 feet tall always need a permit regardless of location.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Boston code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Boston, MA
Boston has no general ordinance restricting lawn ornaments, statues, or yard decorations on private residential property. Decorations must stay within proper...
Boston, MA
Boston has no specific ordinance regulating inflatable holiday displays on private residential property. Inflatables must not encroach on sidewalks, block pu...
Boston, MA
Boston does not have a dedicated ordinance regulating holiday lighting on private residential property. General nuisance, electrical safety, and historic dis...
Boston, MA
Permanent outdoor kitchens in Boston require Inspectional Services Department permits when they include gas, plumbing, electrical, or structural work. Built-...
Boston, MA
Boston treats smokers and solid-fuel grills (wood, pellet, charcoal) the same as charcoal grills under Massachusetts Fire Code 527 CMR 1.00. Use on balconies...
Boston, MA
Boston's Fire Prevention Code (527 CMR 1.00, Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code) prohibits the use or storage of LP-gas grills and propane cylinder...
See how Boston's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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