Springfield, MO Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)

Springfield's Land Development Code treats a fence as a structure subject to the general building-permit rule in LDC § 36-128: anyone who intends to construct a structure must first apply to the building official and obtain a permit, and fences aren't on the article's list of permit-exempt work (unlike, say, small retaining walls or storage sheds under 100 square feet). For fences specifically placed in a required front yard, LDC § 36-453(6)(a)2.d requires that particular permit to be issued at no charge. Applications go to the city's Building Development Services department on the prescribed form, and under LDC § 36-131 a permit is deemed abandoned if work hasn't started within 180 days.