Orem, UT Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Authority
- Orem City Code 22-1-4 (Building Permits Required)
- Standard fence (wood/vinyl)
- Fence permit required; no building permit
- Masonry or concrete fence
- Building permit required
- Retaining wall >= 4 ft / swimming pool
- Building permit required
- Fence repairs
- No permit required
Summary
Orem requires a written fence permit for new fences and a building permit for masonry or concrete fences, pools and retaining walls four feet or more high; standard wood or vinyl fences need the fence permit but not a building permit, and simple fence repairs need no permit.
Requires Permits / Outside: Masonry or concrete fences. Do Not Require Permits: Fence repairs; Fences (except masonry or concrete fences) STILL NEED FENCE PERMIT but not building permit; Retaining walls smaller than 4' high as measured from the bottom of the footing. On-Line Application and Payment Available.
Full Breakdown
Orem City Code Section 22-1-4 (Building Permits Required) provides that it is unlawful to erect, construct, reconstruct or alter any building, structure, fence or any part thereof without first obtaining a written permit from the City. ' Fence repairs and retaining walls smaller than four feet do not require a permit. Fence permits are obtained through Orem's online portal; the City notes that fence permits should not be applied for through the building-permit portal unless the fence is masonry or concrete or includes a retaining wall, which then routes through Planning/Zoning and Building Safety. Drive approaches need an engineering permit but not a building permit. Applicants can reach Development Services at 801-229-7058 (Planning) or 801-229-7060 (Building Safety).
Violations & Fines
Erecting a fence without the required written fence permit, or building a masonry or concrete fence, pool, or qualifying retaining wall without a building permit, violates Orem City Code 22-1-4 and the adopted building code. Enforcement can include a stop-work order, administrative citations, abatement at the owner's expense, and refusal of related approvals until permits are obtained.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a new fence in Orem?
Do I need a permit just to repair my fence?
How do I apply for an Orem fence permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Orem
Compare Orem to another location·View the Utah fence regulations overview
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Fence Permit Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Utah County handle fence permit requirements.