Virginia Beach, VA Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger distance
- Within 30 feet of right-of-way
- Permit fee
- $50 flat fee per lot
- Exemption
- AG District ag/horticultural fences
- Multi-lot fences
- Separate permit required per lot
- Orientation rule
- Finished side must face right-of-way
Summary
A fence or wall built within 30 feet of a public right-of-way in Virginia Beach requires a zoning permit costing $50, with an exemption for agricultural or horticultural fencing in the AG Agricultural District.
A permit shall be required for the construction, reconstruction, replacement or relocation of any fence or wall located within thirty (30) feet of a public right-of-way, except fences or walls used principally for agricultural or horticultural purposes in an AG Agricultural Zoning District. Such fencing shall have the finished side of the fence facing the right-of-way. Any such fence or wall located upon more than one (1) lot shall require a separate permit for each such lot, except lots under common ownership. ... The fee for permits required by this section shall be fifty dollars ($50.00).
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 170 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Virginia Beach's City Zoning Ordinance requires a permit before you construct, reconstruct, replace, or relocate any fence or wall located within 30 feet of a public right-of-way. The finished side must face the right-of-way. Fences used principally for agricultural or horticultural purposes on land zoned AG Agricultural are exempt from this permit requirement. If a fence or wall crosses more than one lot, each lot needs its own permit unless the lots share common ownership. The flat fee set by the Zoning Ordinance is $50 per permit, and the Zoning Administrator's office handles applications.
Violations & Fines
Building or relocating a fence within 30 feet of a right-of-way without the required permit is a zoning violation enforceable by the Zoning Administrator, who can order the work stopped or removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a backyard fence in Virginia Beach?
How much does a Virginia Beach fence permit cost?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Virginia Beach
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