Before You Build in Long Beach, MS: Permit & Rule Checklist (2026)
Everything you need to know before starting a home improvement project
Building a fence, installing a pool, or adding a shed? Each project has its own set of local permits and rules in Long Beach. This guide consolidates fence, pool, ADU, shed, fire pit, and landscaping regulations into one checklist so you know what to expect before you start.
Quick Permit Checklist
At-a-glance overview of permit categories in Long Beach. Click any card for details.
Fences & Walls
Some RestrictionsHeight limits, materials, permits, and shared fence rules.
Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsLong Beach may require permits for fence installation depending on height, location, and type. Permit requirements are established through local building and zoning codes.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsLong Beach limits fence heights through local zoning ordinances. Front yard fences are typically limited to 4 feet and rear/side yard fences to 6 to 8 feet in residential zones.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Some RestrictionsLong Beach addresses boundary fences and neighbor disputes through local ordinances. Mississippi follows general common law principles for shared fences and property line placement.
Swimming Pools
Heavy RestrictionsPool permits, safety fencing, and drainage requirements.
Pool Permits
Some RestrictionsLong Beach requires building permits for swimming pool installation. The Mississippi State Department of Health regulates public and semi-public pools under MS Code Ann. §41-26-1.
Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsThe William Lee Montjoy Pool Safety Act (Miss. Code §45-43-1 et seq.) sets statewide minimum pool barrier rules that Long Beach enforces in addition to local code. Outdoor residential pools deeper than 24 inches must be enclosed by a fence or wall at least four feet high with no gaps that pass a 4-inch sphere. Gates must be self-closing, self-latching, open outward from the pool, and have latches at least 60 inches above the ground or with locking hardware. State law expressly does not exempt pool yards from additional local ordinance requirements.
Safety Rules
Some RestrictionsLong Beach enforces pool safety requirements including water quality, drain covers, and maintenance standards. The MS State Department of Health oversees public pool safety regulations.
ADUs & Granny Flats
Some RestrictionsAccessory dwelling unit rules and garage conversion permits.
ADU Rules
Some RestrictionsLong Beach Zoning Ordinance defines a garage apartment as a dwelling unit erected above a private garage, regulated as an accessory use subordinate to the principal dwelling. Comprehensive Land Use Ordinance #676 (effective Aug 11, 2025) is the controlling instrument; it replaces the 2013 Unified Land Use Ordinance #598. Accessory structures must be on the same zoning lot as the principal building and be subordinate in area, extent and purpose. Mississippi has no statewide ADU preemption, so Long Beach permitting standards (setbacks, height, parking, owner-occupancy) govern.
Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsGarage conversions in Long Beach require a building permit from the Building Department under Mississippi Building Code (IRC-based) and must comply with Zoning Ordinance #598 setbacks, lot coverage, and required off-street parking replacement. Coastal AE/VE flood zone properties face additional elevation and wind-load standards. Confirm details with Building Official Mike Gundlach at (228) 669-9855.
Sheds & Outbuildings
Few RestrictionsShed permits, setback limits, and outbuilding size rules.
Shed Rules
Few RestrictionsLong Beach regulates sheds and outbuildings through local building and zoning codes. Small sheds under 120 to 200 square feet may be exempt from permit requirements in many municipalities.
Fire Pits & Outdoor Structures
Fire pit placement, outdoor burning restrictions, and permits.
No specific fire pits & outdoor structures rules found for Long Beach. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
Landscaping & Tree Removal
Tree removal permits, heritage tree protections, and water rules.
No specific landscaping & tree removal rules found for Long Beach. Check with your local building department for current requirements.
General Permit Tips
When do you typically need a permit?
Most cities require permits for structural work, including fences over a certain height, pools, ADUs, and sheds above a size threshold. Even projects that seem minor can trigger permit requirements, so it is always best to check first.
How to apply for a building permit
Visit your local building department or their website. Most jurisdictions accept online applications. You will typically need a site plan, project description, and may need contractor information. Processing times vary from same-day for simple projects to several weeks for larger builds.
Common permit violations to avoid
Building without a permit, exceeding approved dimensions, and ignoring setback requirements are the most common violations. Penalties can include fines, required removal of the structure, and complications when selling your home.
Permit Guides for Nearby Cities
Looking for rules beyond permits? View all ordinances we track for Long Beach.