Fences of 6 feet or less associated with one-family dwellings in Manhattan are exempt from building permits. All other fences, including those on multi-family properties and construction site fences, require DOB permits.
Under 1 RCNY 101-14, fences 6 feet or less in height, measured from the higher of the two adjoining grades, in connection with one-family dwellings are exempt from building permit requirements. For multi-family residential properties (the majority of Manhattan), fence installation typically requires a DOB permit. Front yard fences are further regulated by the NYC Zoning Resolution, which limits heights to 4 feet in residential districts. Construction fences along sidewalks require a separate DOB permit and must comply with specific material and height standards. In historic districts, any new fence installation may require a permit from the Landmarks Preservation Commission regardless of height. Fence materials are generally unregulated by NYC code for residential properties, though co-op and condo boards may impose material and design requirements through their bylaws. Retaining walls that also serve as fences have separate structural requirements.
Building a fence without a required permit is a DOB violation. Penalties for unpermitted work start at $2,500 and can increase for repeat offenses. Fences exceeding zoning height limits are subject to removal orders. LPC violations in historic districts carry fines up to $5,000 per day.
New York County, NY
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See how New York County's fence permits rules stack up against other locations.
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