Fence Permitting

Building or Zoning Permits & Fence Installations Around Houses

Small Family Dwellings

A permit is not required for the installation of a fence for 1 and 2 family dwellings. However, fences, hedges and walls in front yards (i.e. the portion of your property that fronts on a street) shall not exceed 3 ½ feet in height unless the fence is setback 15 feet from the street right-of-way (Section 201.4 of the Zoning Ordinance). The Board of Adjustment, upon appeal, may allow a fence of a greater height within the 15 foot setback. (The primary purpose for the 15 foot setback, if your fence exceeds 3 ½ ft. in height, is to make sure there are no obstructions to visibility for pedestrians and vehicles entering and exiting driveways, alleys, and public rights-of-way adjacent to your property.)

If your fence is setback 15 feet from the street right-of-way, there are no height limitations or requirements as to which side of the fence faces out. We do advise residents to make sure the fence is being installed on their own property. When it doubt, make sure you check it out by locating your property bounds prior to installation. A mistake in location could be costly.

Larger Dwellings / Commercial Properties

Multi-family dwellings and other commercial properties do require a building/zoning permit prior to installation of a fence. Permit applications are available online by going to the Codes page of the City's website, or in the:
Codes Office
City Hall
51 N Park Street
Lebanon, NH 03766

For questions, please call 603-448-1524.