Richardson, TX Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)

Sec. 6-201 makes it unlawful to construct a fence over two and a half feet in height on any lot without first obtaining a fence permit from the building inspection department, and requires adequate plans and specifications, as determined by the chief building official, to accompany the application. Once the fence is complete, Sec. 6-202 requires the owner to notify the building inspection department for an inspection; the chief building official issues a card of acceptance if the fence complies, or rejects it. After acceptance, the fence must be kept in as near its original condition as possible: it cannot be more than 20 percent out of vertical alignment, damaged or missing sections must be replaced with comparable materials and color, exterior supports cannot be used to hold vertical alignment, and fasteners must be maintained so they do not create a hazard.

Sec. 6-203 routes appeals from a chief building official decision to the zoning board of adjustment, which can grant a special exception where literal enforcement would create an unnecessary hardship without substantially injuring neighboring property. Sec. 6-204 makes clear this fence article does not override the comprehensive zoning ordinance, and where the two conflict, the zoning ordinance controls.