Wichita, KS Fence Regulations: Permit Requirements (2026)

Most ordinary residential fences in Wichita are exempt from building-permit requirements as long as they are 6 feet or less in height, built of standard materials such as wood, vinyl, chain link, or wrought iron, and located outside of corner sight triangles, easements, and the public right-of-way. A permit becomes necessary when the fence exceeds 6 feet, when it functions as a pool barrier under International Residential Code Appendix G, when it serves as part of a retaining wall over 4 feet tall, or when the property lies within the Old Town historic-overlay district or other design-review areas. Fences within the FEMA-mapped Arkansas River and Chisholm Creek floodplains require additional review to ensure they do not obstruct flow during flood events; solid fences may need to be redesigned with breakaway panels. Property owners are responsible for verifying property lines through a private survey before construction, since the city does not establish boundaries. Utility easements typically run along rear and side property lines, and any fence built in an easement may be removed at the owner's expense if the utility needs access. Permit applications go through the Office of Central Inspection.