Rowlett Code of Ordinances Sec. 78-313(a) makes it unlawful to install, alter, add to, or change a fence without first obtaining a permit from the building inspection department. The only exception is for repairs that do not exceed 25 percent of the area of the fence. Permit fees are set by city council resolution.
Fence permits in Rowlett are required under Sec. 78-313(a) of the Code of Ordinances. Except as otherwise provided, it is unlawful for any person to install a fence, or to make any alterations, additions, or changes to a fence, without first obtaining a permit from the building inspection department (Sec. 78-313(a)(1)). The code provides one exception: a permit is not required if alterations, additions, changes, or repairs do not exceed 25 percent of the area of the fence. The permit fee is established by resolution of the city council (Sec. 78-313(a)(2)). The city's residential information advises that even simple fence installations need a building permit to ensure compliance with the ordinance, and the city's fence-repair guidance generally directs owners to obtain a permit before repairing or replacing a fence. Pool, spa, and hot tub enclosures must additionally show compliance with the barrier requirements of Sec. 78-311 on the submitted plans, and final pool inspection is withheld until those requirements are met. Permits are obtained from the building inspection department (Building Safety, 5702 Rowlett Road; 972-412-6100). This is a local permitting requirement; Texas does not impose a statewide fence permit.
Installing or materially altering a fence without a permit is expressly unlawful under Sec. 78-313(a). The 25-percent threshold is the dividing line: repairs at or below 25 percent of the fence area are exempt, while anything larger requires a permit. An unpermitted fence can result in a stop-work order, a citation, or a requirement to bring the fence into compliance.
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