Forsyth County, NC Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Fences over six feet only
- Application
- Residential/Zoning Application
- Plans needed (>6 ft)
- Engineer-sealed elevation and footing
- Fee rate
- $0.15/sq ft, $100 minimum
- Contractor surcharge
- $10 Homeowner's Recovery Fee
Summary
A building permit is only required for fences over six feet tall in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County. Those need engineer-sealed plans. Fences six feet or under need no permit, though you may buy one; cost is $0.15/sq ft with a $100 minimum.
The permit cost is based on the square footage of the proposed fence at a rate of $.15/square foot with a $100.00 minimum. If you are a state licensed contractor the Homeowner's Recovery Fee of $10.00 will be added.
Full Breakdown
The Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Inspections Department (which serves the unincorporated county under the joint UDO) issues fence permits. Only fences taller than six feet legally require one; for those you must submit a Residential/Zoning Application plus scaled building plans showing the fence elevation and footing design, designed and stamped by an engineer. Fences six feet or under can be built without a permit, but you may purchase one if you wish. Permit fees are based on the fence's square footage.
Violations & Fines
Constructing an over-six-foot fence without a permit is a code violation subject to Inspections enforcement, including stop-work orders and mandatory after-the-fact permitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a fence permit cost?
Can I get a permit for a short fence voluntarily?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Forsyth County
Compare Forsyth County to another location·View the North Carolina fence regulations overview
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