Plano does not require a permit for standard wood or metal fences at or below 8 feet. Masonry fences, retaining walls over 4 feet, and pool barriers require Building Inspections permits and engineered plans.
Plano's Building Inspections Division under the Planning Department reviews fence-related permits filed under Chapter 6 Article VII. Most standard wood or wrought-iron residential fences at or below 8 feet do not need a permit, though they must comply with zoning setbacks, easement rules, and sight-triangle requirements. A building permit is required for any masonry fence, any brick column or retaining wall over 4 feet measured from grade to the top, any fence over 8 feet, and all pool barriers under Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 757. Permit applications require a site plan showing property lines, easements, and the fence location, along with engineered structural designs stamped by a Texas-registered professional engineer where applicable. Fences cannot be placed in public utility easements without written consent and must be removable at the owner's cost if a utility needs access. Applications are submitted through the city's ePermit portal. Plano adopted the 2021 International Residential Code with local amendments.
Building without a required permit results in fines up to 500 dollars per day, a stop-work order, and possible forced removal if permit is denied after the fact.
Plano, TX
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