Hendersonville, TN Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Front/corner yard fence
- Zoning Permit required
- Rear/interior yard fence
- No permit needed
- Commercial fences
- Permit always required
- Street setback
- 12 ft from pavement edge
Summary
Hendersonville requires a Zoning Permit before building or replacing a fence in any front or corner side yard of a residential lot, while rear and interior side yard fences need no permit at all.
Within any residential zoned area, a Zoning Permit is required prior to erection or replacement of any fence within any front or corner side yard.
Fences constructed in Residential Districts after the adoption of this Ordinance shall conform to the following:
*RESIDENTIAL LOTS UNDER ONE ACRE: *
A. FENCES - FRONT YARD (Including Interior-Corner, Double Frontage Lots)
Fences located in the front yard of interior, corner, and double frontage lots, including alley lots:
1. Fences shall not be located any closer to the lot line than the home, except as provided below.
2. The fence shall not encroach upon right-of-way, including future/ planned right-of-way as specified by the Hendersonville Transportation Plan. Under no circumstances, however, shall the fence be located any closer than 12 feet to the edge of pavement of the street.
3. Fences will have a zero-foot setback (must be 12 feet from edge of pavement) if the fence is not exceeding 48 inches in heigh and is constructed with the following materials:
a. Finished wrought iron, b. Aluminum tubing, c. Wood "picket" fencing, d. Split rail, e. Brick, f. Stone, or
g. Are constructing with similar decorative materials and design as approved by the
Planning Department or Planning Commission.
Full Breakdown
The Zoning Ordinance's fence chapter splits permit duty by yard: any fence erected or replaced in a front or corner side yard on residentially zoned property triggers a Zoning Permit, while fences confined to the rear or interior side yard are exempt. Commercial and industrial fences work the opposite way, a Zoning Permit is required for any fence erected or replaced on commercial or industrial zoned land, per § 10.4.11.3. All fences must also stay at least 12 feet from the edge of street pavement regardless of permit status.
Violations & Fines
Erecting a permit-required fence without one is a misdemeanor under the ordinance, carrying a $50 fine and additional daily penalties for each day the violation continues, per § 4.13.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a backyard fence in Hendersonville?
What about a fence facing the street?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Hendersonville
Compare Hendersonville to another location·View the Tennessee fence regulations overview
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