Fence regulations for aesthetics and for motorists' safety are included in the Land Development Ordinance. The standards apply to fences erected after 1995 that are on a thoroughfare or collector street.

Existing Fences

• Fences that are within 30 feet of thoroughfares or collector streets are supposed to be no closer to the right-of-way than 5 feet.
• An evergreen shrub is required an average of every 5 feet of fence frontage for fences that are at least 42 inches tall. (Even spacing of shrubs is recommended where practical.)
• Evergreen shrubs must at least 18 inches tall at installation.

Unsure whether your fence is subject to the regulations? See a town-wide list of thoroughfares and collector streets. (List subject to change)

New Fences

A fence permit is required for new or substantially rebuilt fences adjacent to thoroughfare or collector street right(s)-of-way.

Contact

If you have questions about fence regulations and how to comply, please contact:

Planning Department
PO Box 8005
Cary NC 27512
(919) 469-4082
(919) 388-1103 (fax)