Fence Regulations in District of Columbia (2026)

3 rules on the books across District of Columbia, 1 city or county. Select a rule to read the full details.

Severity: Few Restrictions · Light Restrictions · Some Restrictions · Significant Restrictions · Heavy Restrictions

Neighbor Fence Rules

Rules about shared boundary fences, including who pays for construction and maintenance, and which side faces the neighbor.

In the District of Columbia, a fence within 10 feet of a party line is capped at 7 feet unless the adjoining owners…

Height limits and permit requirements for retaining walls, including engineering requirements for taller walls on sloped lots.

In DC's R and RF residential zones, a retaining wall is capped at 6 feet, dropping to 4 feet along a street frontage…

Specific materials that are prohibited for fencing, such as barbed wire, razor wire, or electric fencing in residential zones.

D.C. law bans barbed-wire fences, barriers, or obstructions along any street, alley, road, or public or private parking…