Milwaukee requires a fence permit from the Department of Neighborhood Services for any fence over 4 feet tall or any fence in a front yard, regardless of height.
Milwaukee Code Chapter 295 zoning regulates fences. A DNS fence permit is required for fences exceeding 4 feet in a rear or side yard, any fence in a front yard, and any pool barrier. Permit applications require a site plan showing property lines, setbacks, height, and materials. Permit fees start around $60. Residential fences in rear yards may reach 6 feet without variance, while front yard fences are capped at 4 feet and must be at least 50 percent open for visibility. Corner lots have additional clear-vision triangle requirements.
Installing a fence without a required permit results in a stop-work order and a double-fee retroactive permit. Illegal fences can be ordered removed.
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