Austin does not require permits for fences up to 7 feet that are not in a flood hazard area. Fences in flood zones always require a permit regardless of height. Pool barrier fences must meet IRC standards.
Austin exempts residential fences not exceeding 7 feet in height from building permits, provided they are not located within a flood hazard area. Fences in flood zones always require a floodplain permit regardless of height or material. Fences over 7 feet require a building permit. All fences must comply with the Land Development Code height limits by location: 8 feet in rear/side yards, 4 feet solid or 6 feet open in front yards. Corner lots require sight visibility triangles. Pool barrier fences must be at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates per the International Residential Code. Retaining walls over 4 feet (from bottom of footing to top of wall) require a separate permit with engineering review. Fence permit applications can be submitted online or at the Permit Center at One Texas Center, 505 Barton Springs Road.
Building in a flood zone without a permit: fines and potential removal order. Non-compliant fences: notice to correct.
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