Henrico County, VA Fence Regulations: Fence Permit Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Standalone fence permit
- Not generally required
- Reviewed with
- Building/subdivision/site plans
- Governing section
- Sec. 24-5402
- Exempt
- Agricultural, temporary, erosion-control fences
- Contact
- Henrico Planning (804) 501-4602
Summary
Henrico County does not require a standalone fence permit for a typical residential fence, but Chapter 24 standards are reviewed with any building permit, plan of development, or subdivision. Certain fences (agricultural, temporary construction, erosion-control, tree protection) are exempt from the fence standards entirely.
the standards of this division apply to any construction, reconstruction, or replacement of fences or walls ... Review for compliance with the standards of this division will occur during review of an application for a provisional use permit, conditional use permit, building permit, certificate of occupancy, plan of development, site plan, or subdivision.
Full Breakdown
Under Sec. 24-5402, the fence and wall standards apply to any construction, reconstruction, or replacement of fences or walls, and compliance is reviewed during review of a building permit, certificate of occupancy, plan of development, site plan, or subdivision. A residential homeowner typically installs a code-compliant fence without a separate zoning permit, but a building permit may be required for masonry walls or footings. Exemptions from the fence standards include support fences, temporary construction fencing, erosion-control fences, government-facility fences, agricultural livestock fences, and tree-protection fencing.
Violations & Fines
Installing a fence that violates Chapter 24 is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000, escalating for each 10-day period the violation continues (Sec. 24-7602). A stop-work order may also be issued.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to build a fence in Henrico County?
Which fences are exempt from the county fence rules?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Henrico County
Compare Henrico County to another location·View the Virginia fence regulations overview
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