Carmel UDO Section 5.09(A) requires an Improvement Location Permit before installing any new fence, except for exempted uses on lots or tracts larger than three acres. The permit is issued through the City's Building and Code Services / Community Services Department.
Under UDO Section 5.09(A) (FW-01), 'An Improvement Location Permit shall be obtained prior to installation of any new fence, except when the fence or wall will be used for exempted uses on lots or tracts larger than three (3) acres.' The Improvement Location Permit is Carmel's zoning-compliance permit, reviewed against the Fence and Wall Standards (height, front-yard transparency, vision clearance, setbacks) before a fence is built. Front-yard fences in residential districts must also satisfy the 'Fence Type' rule that at least 25% of the fence area be open to allow visibility (5.09(B)(2)). Fences and walls may be built on the front lot line but must be set back at least one foot from any sidewalk or multi-use path (5.09(B)(3)). Accessory-building and pool permits are processed under Carmel City Code Chapter 7 (Building Code); the UDO cross-references Chapter 7 for accessory-structure Improvement Location Permits (5.02(A)(1)). Applicants should confirm current submittal requirements and fees with Carmel Building and Code Services.
Building a fence without the required Improvement Location Permit, or contrary to the permit/standards, is a UDO violation enforced by Carmel Code Enforcement. Typical remedies include a stop-work or notice of violation, a requirement to obtain the permit after the fact, and modification or removal of non-compliant fencing. Continued non-compliance can lead to ordinance-violation citations and fines under the City Code.
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