Roswell, GA Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Applies in
- Historic Overlay District only
- Review type
- Minor Certificate of Appropriateness
- Reviewer
- Zoning Director
- Decision time
- 10 working days
- Governing law
- UDC §§ 13.7.2, 13.7.4
Summary
In Roswell's Historic Overlay District, adding, replacing or altering a fence, gate or screening wall requires a Minor Certificate of Appropriateness from the Zoning Director before any building or land-disturbance permit can issue.
Minor Certificates of Appropriateness include modifications to the following.
A.Windows (including storm shutters);B.Roofs;C.Residential accessibility structures;D.Storage sheds/ playhouses;E.Doors (including storm shutters);F.Drainage;G.Utility meters: electric, gas, cables;H.Exhaust/supply fans/plumbing vents;I.Fences/gates/screening walls;J.HVAC;K.Exterior lighting;L.Shutters;M.Siding and trim;N.Railings;O.Awnings;P.Skylights; andQ.Demolition of buildings, structures, or other objects classified as Intrusion on the Historic Properties Map as established in Article 8.R.Other similar changes as determined by the Zoning Director with the consent of the chair of the Historic Preservation Commission. (Ord. No. 2019-01-05, § 3, 1-14-2019; Ord. No. 2022-07-11, §§ 4, 5, 7-25-2022)
Editor's note— Ord. No. 2019-01-05, § 3, adopted Jan. 14, 2019, changed the title of § 13.7.4 from "What is a Minor Certificate of Appropriateness?" to read as herein set out.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 17 | Unified Development Code: Supplement 5).
Full Breakdown
UDC § 13.7.2 requires Historic Review for all property in the -HOD, and bars any Land Disturbance Permit or Building Permit from issuing without an approved Certificate of Appropriateness. Fences, gates and screening walls are specifically listed among the changes eligible for a Minor Certificate of Appropriateness under § 13.7.4, reviewed administratively by the Zoning Director rather than at a Historic Preservation Commission hearing. The Zoning Director must decide within 10 working days of a complete application. Ordinary maintenance or repair that doesn't change design, material or appearance is exempt from review. Outside the -HOD, Roswell's code sets fence design standards at § 10.2.10 but does not impose a separate citywide fence permit.
Violations & Fines
Installing or altering a fence in the Historic Overlay District without an approved Certificate of Appropriateness is a code violation; the Zoning Director can require removal or retroactive review, and it blocks any related building permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a fence in Roswell, GA?
How long does a Roswell fence Certificate of Appropriateness take?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Roswell
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Fence Permit Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fulton County handle fence permit requirements.