Shelby County, TN Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Administering office
- Planning and Development
- Permit portal
- Develop901.com
- Deviation process
- UDC 4.6.7F / Ch. 9.21
- Temporary fencing
- Exempt (under 18 months)
- Planning permits phone
- 901-636-6619
Summary
In unincorporated Shelby County fences must comply with the Unified Development Code and are reviewed by the Division of Planning and Development through the Develop901 portal; larger or nonconforming fences may require an administrative deviation.
The Planning Director may permit additional fence material, alternate fence design, additional fence height, or reduced setback through the administrative deviation if it is determined that such allowance is not contrary to the public interest and will not be injurious to the surrounding neighborhood.
Full Breakdown
The Memphis and Shelby County Division of Planning and Development administers zoning for unincorporated Shelby County through the Develop901 online permit portal. Fences must meet the Unified Development Code standards in Section 4.6.7 for height, materials, and setbacks before installation. UDC Sub-Section 4.6.7F provides an administrative-deviation process (Chapter 9.21) through which the Planning Director may permit additional fence height, alternate design, additional material, or reduced setback if the allowance is not contrary to the public interest and will not injure the surrounding neighborhood. Factors considered include fencing in the immediate vicinity, the roadway classification, and the proposed use. Temporary construction fencing removed within eighteen months is exempt. Applicants apply at Develop901.com; planning permits questions go to 901-636-6619.
Violations & Fines
Installing a fence that violates UDC Section 4.6.7 without an approved administrative deviation is a zoning violation. Code Enforcement may issue correction notices requiring the fence to be lowered, altered, or removed, and may assess civil penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who regulates fences in unincorporated Shelby County?
Can I get approval for a taller fence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Shelby County
Compare Shelby County to another location·View the Tennessee fence regulations overview
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