Nampa, ID Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Under Nampa City Code 10-1-8.A, it is unlawful to construct or place a fence or masonry wall on any property within the city without first applying for and obtaining a building permit, and the fence must comply with all permit provisions. Fence height is measured at grade within 6 inches of the bottom of the fence, wall, or screen. The code regulates several materials closely. Electric fences (10-1-8.C.1) are allowed only under specific standards: they must conform to IEC standard 60335-2-76, be driven by a commercial storage battery not exceeding 12 volts DC (charged primarily by solar), be completely surrounded by a nonelectric fence or wall at least 6 feet high, carry 'Warning - Electric Fence' signs at intervals no more than 60 feet apart, and are otherwise regulated like burglar alarms (agricultural-animal containment fences are treated differently). Barbed wire (10-1-8.C.2) is permitted only in commercial or industrial zones as the top section of a security fence, with barbs a minimum of 72 inches above grade and not projecting over a public right of way. Fences may be placed in rights of way or easements only subject to sidewalk and vision-clearance rules and must be removed at the owner's expense if the city needs the easement. No fence may be built within 36 inches of a fire hydrant.