Plainfield, NJ Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)

Section 17:9-29 of the Plainfield Municipal Code permits fences and walls in all districts but classes them as structures requiring an approved development permit prior to construction. The applicant submits adequate surveys, plans and details to the Zoning Officer in accordance with Article I of Chapter 17 so a determination can be made on the proposed fence's zoning conformance. Under § 17:1-20, the Zoning Officer examines permit applications together with the administrative officer and the Construction Official, cannot approve a development permit for a structure that would violate Chapter 17 except on a written order of the appropriate approving authority, and denies applications that do not conform.

The same section sets the rules the application is measured against: height by yard and zone, a finished side facing outward, a drainage requirement so that natural drainage continues and surface water is not blocked or dammed on the property or any adjacent lot, and the sight triangle bar. Anyone applying for a development permit to erect a fence or decorative wall must ensure compliance with the drainage provision. A wall proposed as a retaining wall can be required to go to the City Engineer for review before the permit issues.

The cost side sits in the Construction Official's fee schedule at § 2:10-6C, which lists a flat fee of $80 for fences over six feet in height that are not part of a pool barrier system.

Two items are excepted from the height and location provisions: a permitted buffer area screen approved as part of a site plan application, and fencing required to enclose a tennis court or racquetball court. Neither exception removes the permit step for ordinary residential fences in the City of Plainfield.