HOA approval for a fence

Fences are one of the most common HOA requests, and one of the most often sent back. Most denials come down to height, material or placement. Here's what your architectural committee looks at and what to send them.

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What HOAs usually check

Height: many HOAs cap back-yard fences at 5 or 6 feet and front-yard fences at 3 or 4 feet.
Material and color: approved lists often name wood, vinyl or wrought iron, and rule out chain link.
Placement: setbacks from the street and sidewalk, and whether the fence can sit on the property line.
Finished side: many rules require the finished side to face neighbors or the street.
Easements: utility and drainage easements often need to stay clear or have a gate.
Style: some communities require one fence style so the street looks consistent.

What to include in your request

The HOA's architectural request form, filled in and signed
A site plan or plat survey showing where the fence runs, with measurements. Approveway draws the plan from your measurements
Height, material, color and style, with a photo or product sheet
Gate locations and widths
Contractor name and planned start and finish dates
Neighbor acknowledgment, if your HOA asks for it

Do you need a city permit for a fence?

Often. Many cities require a permit for fences over a set height, commonly 6 or 7 feet, and for fences in front yards or on corner lots where they can block drivers' view. Pool fences have their own safety rules. Check with your city or county building department before you build.

How long fence approval takes

Many CC&Rs give the architectural committee 30 to 45 days to respond, and some treat no response as approval. Your governing documents say which.

Common questions

Can my HOA stop me from building a fence?

It can set rules on height, material, color and placement, and deny requests that break them. It usually can't deny a fence that meets every written rule without a reason. Your CC&Rs set the standard.

What if I built a fence without HOA approval?

The HOA may ask for a request after the fact, require changes, or ask you to remove it, and some charge fines. Submitting a complete request quickly is usually the best fix.

Do I need my neighbor's permission for a fence?

Only if your HOA requires neighbor sign-off, which some do. A courtesy notice helps either way, especially on a shared property line.

Build your fence approval packet

Upload your HOA's rules and describe the project. Approveway checks every rule, drafts the request form and cover letter, draws your plan and side view, and builds the packet you submit.

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