• Home
|
• Residents
|
• Business
|
• Departments
|
• City Government
 | 
• e-Services
 | 

Building Inspection and Zoning

• Services
• Permit Fees
• Building Permits
• Electrical Permits
• Plumbing Permits
• Inspections
• Code Enforcement
• Occupancy Permits
• Department Resources
•  
• City Government > Online Municipal Code
• Development
• Engineering
• Property Search

Building Permits >

Regardless of the type of fence or reason for replacing or installing a fence, a permit is required. A replacement fence must conform to the requirements for new fences.

All fences shall be kept in good repair.

Construction Requirements

• Fences must be constructed of approved materials such as fencing materials sold at retail outlets, concrete block, or treated lumber. They may not be constructed of sheet metal or other salvage materials. Electrified and/or barbed wire fences are not permitted.
• If the fence has only one good side, that side must face outward toward the neighbor or the city right-of-way.

Location Requirements

• Basically, a fence may be erected from the front of the dwelling (excepting porches) to the rear property line. No fencing is permitted in the required front yard. On a corner lot (regardless of house configuration or addressing), the shorter lot dimension abutting the street is considered the front yard.
• The maximum height of a fence in most areas is six (6) feet. There are, however, three (3) foot height limitations in "vision triangle" areas. The Building Inspection Department will review this at the time of application.

Permit Submittal Requirements

• Application for a fence permit should include a site plan, a description of the fence, and an estimated cost of construction. The site plan can be a survey or a simple drawing of the lot showing the house, accessory buildings, and the proposed fence.
• Permit fees are due when permit is issued.

This information details basic code requirements to consider when contemplating fence construction. Proper construction is the responsibility of the owner or designated agent. If you have any additional questions concerning fence construction, please contact the Department of Building Inspection and Zoning.

Building Inspection and Zoning Department

Director

West Allis City Hall