Colonie, NY Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Under the Town of Colonie Zoning Law, installation of a fence is regulated as a zoning matter and the Department of Building & Code Enforcement issues a fence/zoning permit before any fence is erected, replaced, or relocated. Applicants typically submit (1) a completed application form, (2) a plot plan or survey showing the fence's exact location relative to property lines, the existing house, and any utility easements, (3) the proposed height and materials, and (4) photographs or specifications. The 'finished' (smooth) side of the fence must face outward toward the neighbor under the standard Colonie practice consistent with most New York residential zoning codes. Fences crossing or close to lot lines must respect recorded easements (especially utility, drainage, and stormwater easements), and the property owner is responsible for verifying the lot line - the town does not survey the property. Pool barriers (see fences/pool-barriers) are reviewed concurrently with the swimming pool building permit because they must comply with the ICC International Swimming Pool and Spa Code as adopted by 19 NYCRR Part 1228 (the New York State Uniform Code). Permit applications that propose fences exceeding the height limits, fences in corner sight-distance triangles, or fences in front of required setback lines are referred to the Zoning Board of Appeals for variance.