A zoning permit is required to build a fence in Ann Arbor. Washtenaw County does not issue fence permits; apply through your city or township. Ann Arbor's permit is handled by Planning & Development Services.
Ann Arbor's Unified Development Code, Section 5.29.1(C), requires a zoning permit for the construction of fences consistent with Section 5.26. The permit confirms height, opacity, and setback compliance before you build. A separate building permit may apply to taller structures or retaining walls under the Michigan Residential Code. Because the county does not zone under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act (MCL 125.3101), permit rules vary by community—Ypsilanti and each township run their own process. Temporary construction fences must comply with Article 13 of the City Construction Code and cannot stand longer than a year without Zoning Board of Appeals approval.
Building without the required zoning permit is a code violation; the city may issue a stop-work order and require removal until a permit is obtained.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
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See how Washtenaw County's permit requirements rules stack up against other locations.
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