Royal Oak, MI Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)

Section 323-6 of the Fence Ordinance, Chapter 323, makes a permit mandatory before any fence goes up: Subsection A declares it 'unlawful to construct or install, or cause to be constructed or installed, any fence upon any property within the City of Royal Oak without first obtaining a fence permit.' Applications go to the Building Department under Subsection B and must state the applicant's name and address, the property address and owner, the fence's proposed location relative to lot lines, drives, walkways, other fences, streets and buildings, the type of fence including posts and supporting members, its proposed height, and any other information the chapter requires.

Subsection C directs the Building Official or agents to grant the permit once the proposed fence conforms to all applicable Code requirements and the applicant pays the fee the City Commission sets by resolution before the application is considered. Subsection D makes clear that getting a City permit does not excuse a homeowner from private deed restrictions or covenants; the City does not review those documents before issuing a fence permit, so a permitted fence can still violate a subdivision's private rules. Fences must also match the property's approved site plan under Section 323-3A and comply with Chapter 770 Zoning and other applicable ordinances under Section 323-5F.