Fences that stay within the exempt heights need no zoning setback approval, but Howard County's building code requires a permit for fences over 6 feet tall. Taller or closer fences must also satisfy the district's accessory-structure bulk requirements.
Fence setback exemptions are set in Zoning Regulations Section 128.0.A.9, but building permits are administered separately by the Department of Inspections, Licenses & Permits (DILP). Under the reg, any fence beyond the exempt heights must comply with all accessory-structure bulk requirements of the applicable zoning district. In practice a building permit is required for fences over six feet; standard residential fences six feet or under generally do not require a building permit. Corner-lot and pipestem-lot fences carry extra restrictions. Contact DILP Permits at 410-313-2455 before building a tall or masonry fence.
Building without a required permit can bring stop-work orders, permit-fee penalties and orders to correct or remove the fence, enforced by DILP.
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See how Howard County's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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