Buncombe County, NC Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Zoning permit for fence
- Not separately required
- Building-permit exempt (NC code)
- Fence 7 feet or lower
- Building permit issued by
- Permits and Inspections
- Zoning compliance
- Cert required for buildings
- Code section
- Buncombe 78-598, 78-599
Summary
Buncombe County zoning does not require a separate zoning permit for an ordinary residential fence, and the North Carolina building code exempts residential fences up to seven feet from a building permit. A building permit from Permits and Inspections is required for construction that does need one.
Upon receiving a certificate of zoning compliance, a building permit shall be obtained from the Buncombe County Permits and Inspections Department for the construction or alteration of any structure.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 37).
Full Breakdown
Under the Buncombe County Zoning Ordinance, a certificate of zoning compliance is required before erecting or structurally altering a building (Sec. 78-598), and once issued a building permit must be obtained from the Buncombe County Permits and Inspections Department (Sec. 78-599). The zoning ordinance does not single out ordinary residential fences for a zoning permit. Under the North Carolina Residential Code (adopted statewide), a building permit is not required for fences seven feet high or lower. Taller fences and fences that serve as retaining walls may require review. Verify current requirements with Buncombe County Permits and Inspections and the Planning Division before building.
Violations & Fines
Building without a required permit or certificate of zoning compliance is a violation; the county may issue a notice of violation and a $100.00 per day civil penalty under Section 78-583.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a residential fence in Buncombe County?
Who issues fence-related permits in the county?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Buncombe County
Compare Buncombe County to another location·View the North Carolina fence regulations overview
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