Virginia Beach, VA Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Virginia Beach follows the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code regarding fences. Under USBC 2021 Section 105.2, fences not over 6 feet in height are exempt from building permits. That exemption does not excuse compliance with the Virginia Beach Zoning Ordinance, which still limits height (4 feet front, 6 feet side/rear), setback, and material. Permits are required for: (1) fences over 6 feet tall; (2) retaining walls over 4 feet measured from the bottom of the footing; (3) any fence crossing a Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Resource Protection Area buffer (100-foot buffer along tidal shores and perennial streams); (4) fences on a primary dune or beach in oceanfront properties, which need Wetlands Board or Joint Permit Application review; and (5) pool barrier fences, which are reviewed as part of the swimming pool permit under USBC Appendix G. To apply, use the Virginia Beach Development Services Center (DSC) online portal or counter at the Municipal Center. Submit a site plan showing property lines, existing structures, proposed fence location, height, materials, and setback dimensions. Fees are modest (typically $50 for the permit, $65 for a zoning review if a variance is needed). Inspections are required for over-height fences and retaining walls, typically at post-footing stage and at completion. HOAs in planned communities such as Lago Mar, Lake Placid, and Kings Grant impose architectural review requirements that run separately from the city permit - get written HOA approval before applying. Surveys: the city does not verify property-line accuracy. Boundary disputes with neighbors are civil matters; a licensed Virginia surveyor ($500-$1,200) is strongly recommended before installing any fence close to a shared line.