Broward County requires a building permit for nearly every fence because the Florida Building Code treats fences as structures that must survive hurricane-force wind loads.
Under the Florida Building Code as enforced by Broward County, a permit is required for fences regardless of height or material. Applications are filed with the Broward County Building Code Services Division (for unincorporated areas) or your municipal building department. Submittals typically include a survey showing the fence location, details of post embedment, material specifications, and a signed contractor affidavit. Fences must be engineered to withstand the 170 mph ultimate design wind speed assigned to Broward under ASCE 7. Permits also trigger inspection of setbacks from easements and sight-triangle compliance. Replacing an existing fence still requires a permit because Broward operates under the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) amendments of the Florida Building Code.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Broward County's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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