NYC DOB requires permits for fences over 6 feet tall, retaining walls over 4 feet, masonry fences of any height, and all fences in landmark districts. Chain-link and wood fences under 6 feet in residential yards generally do not require a DOB permit but must still conform to zoning.
NYC Building Code §3301 and DOB rules require work permits (PW1) for any fence over 6 ft, any masonry or concrete wall, any retaining wall over 4 ft, and all fences in landmark districts or zoning overlay areas. Standard residential wood or chain-link fences 6 ft or less are typically exempt from permits but must comply with zoning setbacks. Landmark districts (Riverdale, Longwood, Mott Haven) require a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Landmarks Preservation Commission before any work. DOB Now filing is required for permitted fences. Fees start around $300 for standard residential fence filings.
No permit where required: $1,250-$2,500 plus stop-work order. Work without LPC CofA: $5,000-$15,000. Illegal retaining wall: $2,500+ plus engineering correction.
See how Bronx County's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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