Bradenton, FL Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)

Section 2.2.1 of the Bradenton Land Use Regulations says a zoning permit must be issued by the PCD director before the construction or alteration of any structure, including temporary structures and accessory structures, such as signs, fences and parking areas, except for recurring maintenance, regardless of cost. The rule applies regardless of cost, so a low-priced fence is not exempt. A zoning permit application will not be processed until all other approvals and reviews required under the Land Use Regulations have been completed.

Section 2.2.1.1 sets what the application must include: a scaled drawing showing the property lines, adjacent streets, address or legal description, and existing and proposed structures, including the outside dimensions of the structures and their distances from the property lines. The application must state the proposed use of the structure, and the filing fee is per appendix A. Section 2.2 adds that applications are made at the office of the PCD director and that incomplete applications are not scheduled for review.

Section 2.2.1.2 governs issuance. The PCD director issues the permit if the proposed construction meets the requirements of all applicable sections of the Land Use Regulations and has been approved by other governmental agencies or other city departments as determined necessary. Section 2.2.1.3 requires the reasons for any denial to be stated with specific reference to the applicable provisions.

Fence-specific conditions sit in section 5.1.2.7. A fence or hedge can be permitted within an easement provided the owner signs an affidavit, before the fence permit is issued, agreeing to remove any portion or all of the fence at the owner's expense if the city or a public utility needs the easement. A temporary fence needs approval by the PCD director for up to one year from permit approval, with an extension of up to six months. Fences on vacant residential property cannot be installed except at the discretion of the PCD director under listed criteria, including that the fence secures the property against vagrancy or illegal dumping. Chapter 5.0 adds that accessory structures require a permit unless otherwise stated.