Brooklyn fences under 6 feet in rear/side yards and under 4 feet in front yards generally do not require a DOB permit, but zoning and landmark rules still apply.
In Brooklyn, fence construction is governed by the NYC Zoning Resolution and the NYC Building Code administered by the Department of Buildings (DOB). Under NYC Admin Code §28-105.4.2 and DOB Buildings Bulletin 2014-019, ordinary fences that do not exceed six feet in height in rear or side yards, or four feet in front yards, are generally exempt from building permits. However, fences in landmark districts require a Certificate of No Effect or permit from the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC). Masonry retaining walls over 3 feet, or fences attached to structures, typically require DOB permits and licensed contractors. Corner lots have sight-triangle restrictions per Zoning Resolution §23-44.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Kings County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Kings County, NY
Feeding pigeons, squirrels, raccoons, or other wildlife that creates unsanitary conditions is prohibited in Brooklyn under NYC Health Code §153.09.
Kings County, NY
Brooklyn residents may keep backyard hens, but roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys, pigs, goats, and sheep are prohibited under NYC Health Code §161.01.
Kings County, NY
New York City has no breed-specific dog ban, but NYCHA public housing and many private landlords restrict certain breeds including pit bulls and Rottweilers.
Kings County, NY
NYC Health Code §161.01 prohibits cattle, horses, sheep, goats, pigs, and most livestock in Brooklyn, with narrow exceptions for licensed facilities.
Kings County, NY
Brooklyn street trees are city property; trimming requires a free NYC Parks permit and must be performed by a licensed arborist under NYC Admin Code §18-129.
Kings County, NY
Brooklyn property owners must maintain yards so grass and weeds do not exceed 10 inches or create rat harborage under NYC Admin Code §17-142 and §16-118.
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