In most cities, fence construction is regulated at the state, county, or city level. In Maryland, fence laws are set at the local level, meaning different counties may have different fencing laws or requirements.
Most cities and counties in Maryland require a permit to construct a new fence. Baltimore City is bordered by Baltimore County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County. If your property is in one of those counties, be sure to check your county website to see if there are different fence regulations. We have some basic information about fence permits in Maryland.
Fence Material Regulations
In general, Maryland fence laws don’t include ordinances regulating what materials you can and cannot use for your fence. Wood, chain link, and vinyl are commonly used and are usually not restricted. However, certain materials are regulated or prohibited. In Baltimore City, razor wire is prohibited on residential fences. Barbed wire is permitted only on fences exceeding six feet nine inches in height, and even then, it may be subject to restrictions. Baltimore City code also requires that fences have no sharp points, jagged edges, or dangerous projections. Fences under three feet six inches tall cannot have sharp pickets.
As always, you should check in with your homeowners association, or HOA, to make sure there aren’t prohibited fence materials in your neighborhood.
Height Regulations in Maryland
Fence height regulations vary by jurisdiction in Maryland. Here’s what you need to know for the Baltimore area.
Baltimore City
In Baltimore City, front yard fences are limited to 42 inches (3.5 feet) in height. Side and rear yard fences for residential dwellings may be up to six feet tall. Commercial and industrial properties may build fences up to eight feet, and special-purpose fences for dangerous areas or athletic fields may exceed eight feet with Building Official authorization.
Baltimore County
If you are having a pool installed, a permit is required, and you must meet county pool code regulations. If the fence is 42″ high or less, a permit is not required. For anything taller than 42″, you must have a permit.
Howard County
Howard County follows similar height guidelines. A permit is required if the fence is over 6′ tall. All pools require a 4′ tall fence.
Property Line Regulations
Maryland has common fence laws at the state level that hold both property owners responsible for shared fences along their boundaries. However, a homeowner cannot force their neighbor to agree to contribute to building a fence, even if it is constructed on the property line. But if both neighbors agree to the fence, they are equally responsible for maintenance and repairs. In Baltimore City, a fence may be built only on the property of the owner of the fence. Adjacent property owners may jointly build on a property line with a written agreement and a permit.
Contact Hercules GSA Today!
Whether you need a commercial or a high security fence, Hercules Fence GSA can do the job for you. We have been providing professional, quality service since 1955 and work to uphold our reputation everyday. We have locations across the Maryland and Washington Metropolitan areas and are ready to cater to your fencing needs. Give us a call at (410)-799-1555 or contact us online. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter,LinkedIn, and Pinterest for more updates!
