Wondering if you need a permit to install or replace your fence? In San Antonio, you don’t need a permit, but you must follow Texas Code 157.02, which sets out specific rules and regulations. If you are not familiar with this, it is advisable to entrust the installation of your fence to an experienced professional such as our experts at CK Outdoor Advantage. Here are some rules to keep in mind when installing a new fence.
Height Regulations of Residential Fences
In the front yard of a residential property, you can build a fence up to three feet or about one meter high. On non-residential properties, no fence may be more than three meters high. On the sides of your property and in the backyard, your fence can be up to 4 feet or about 1.2 meters high. This provides the privacy a person needs to feel comfortable.
Materials You Can and Cannot Use
Although it can provide an additional layer of security, there are certain materials that you cannot use when building your fence. General regulations require that your fence be strong, vertical, made of high quality materials and structurally sound. Any material that could be potentially dangerous to another person or animal is prohibited. For example, your fence must not have barbed wire, wire mesh or electricity running through it.
There are still many materials on the market that allow you to build fences that are safer and much more attractive. Acceptable materials include chain-link, cedar or pressure-treated wood fencing, PVC and vinyl fencing, and iron fencing. Iron fences in particular are very safe because they are particularly difficult to overcome.
Local Service Cables in Your Neighborhood
Supply lines and cables run underground. Before digging, make sure you know where they are so you don’t come across one. You are responsible for any damage you cause to these cables. Therefore, it is much safer to install a fence around your property by calling a professional.
Remember that in addition to the electrical cables, you should also ask your gas supplier to identify underground locations. Many contractors, such as Some companies, such as CK Outdoor Advantage, request this information themselves. Therefore, contact your contractor to see if this step is necessary to complete yourself.
Speak with Your Neighbors
When building a fence, you need to think about not only your household but also the people on the other side. Although not required by law, talking to your neighbors can help you maintain good relationships. Talk to them before you start your project, especially if the fence runs between your property and theirs.
San Antonio bylaws state that you must maintain the appearance of the fence at least on the side facing neighboring properties or a public street. A poorly constructed fence can be a nuisance and lead to a crime.
Remember: If your neighbor does not agree to the construction of a fence along the property line, you must install it so that it is completely on your side. In order to avoid fines, accurately locating the property line is crucial.
What Happens if You Ignore By-Laws?
Unlike California’s fence laws, which require shared responsibility, Texas’ fence laws are more permissive. It’s every man for himself. When you pay for a fence, it is yours alone.
You are not required to contribute to the cost or maintenance of a fence erected by your neighbor unless agreed in advance. So if a fence is destroyed by a storm or other natural disaster, you are not legally obligated to help repair it. However, if the neighbors agree to maintain the shared fence, this agreement becomes legally binding.
Fulfill all By-Law Requirements with CK Outdoor Advantage!
Although you don’t need a permit to install a fence, it can be difficult to install it yourself if you’re not familiar with best practices and city regulations. If you have any doubts, contact us at CK Outdoor Advantage! Because of our many years in this industry, we are experts in the specifics of fencing regulations in San Antonio and the surrounding areas of Texas. Following the rules shouldn’t be stressful. We want to make sure you get the security you deserve!