In Austin, according to Austin’s Code Of Ordinances, solid fences cannot extend beyond 8 feet high, while you can build an ornamental fence higher than 8 feet. If your residence is adjacent to city property, you may be unable to install solid fencing at all. In any case, you’ll have to acquire a written authorization from neighbors whose properties would be affected by the fence installation in order to proceed with your project. At Austex, we stay up-to-date on city and local ordinances to ensure your project complies with mandatory regulations, so we can help you determine the types of fences suitable for your property.

In many cases, you may need a permit to install a fence, but the city does outline certain discrepancies. If your property isn’t within a floodplain hazard area, you shouldn’t need a permit for fences 8 feet and under. The City of Austin, as stated on their website, doesn’t regulate what kind of materials you build your fence from, though, so our wood and iron fences are always up to code.

In most cases, the City of Austin allows you to build a fence that sits 5 to 10 feet back from the property line adjacent to the roadway. If you live on a corner lot and want to install part of your fence in the front yard, you will need to obtain the appropriate permit since certain fences can impair visibility of the roadways. If you live on an intersection, the City of Austin prohibits building any fence type higher than 3 feet if you’re installing it within 20 feet of the intersection.

Solid fences like wood privacy fences, stone and vinyl are not to exceed between 6 and 7 feet tall. You can install an ornamental fence like pickets or iron fencing up to 8 feet. Typically, you need written consent or an agreement from your neighbors who are affected by the fence before you can obtain permitting from the city. As long as you and your neighbors are in agreement about the fence, obtaining permits for your project should be a straightforward and simple process.

In short, no. The City of Austin requires fencing to be set back from the property line, so the side that faces you is still within the boundaries of your neighbor’s yard. Unless you speak to your neighbor and request to paint or stain the side that faces your home, city regulations don’t allow you to do so. If your neighbor is willing to let you paint their fence, though, you both can provide written statements detailing the agreement.

If you currently have a fence, we install your new fence along the same perimeter. Otherwise, we work with fencing ordinances to ensure your fence complies with city regulations. We do this so you can avoid problems down the road if you or your neighbors decide to sell in the future. Prior to installation, though, we highly suggest having your property surveyed to ensure you mark your fence boundary clearly.