Fences under 7 feet in Reno generally do not require a building permit, but must still meet zoning rules for height, location, and corner visibility. Fences over 7 feet, on retaining walls, or in floodways require permits.
Reno Development Services handles fence permitting. Fences 7 feet or less in height constructed of standard materials (wood, vinyl, chain link, wrought iron) on level ground typically do not require a building permit, though they must comply with RMC Title 18 zoning rules for height and setback. Permits are required when: fence height exceeds 7 feet, fence is combined with a retaining wall exceeding 4 feet of total combined height, fence is placed within a designated floodway (Truckee River corridor, Steamboat Creek, etc.), fence includes masonry or structural concrete elements, or fence is in a special overlay district (historic district, airport overlay). Permit applications require a site plan showing property lines, existing structures, the proposed fence location and height, and materials. HOA architectural approval is typically required before the city will consider the permit application in covenant communities. Fences placed in public right-of-way or utility easements require encroachment review.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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See how Reno's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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