Fence Regulations — Philadelphia, PA
Governed by Sec. 14-603(6). Last verified June 1, 2026.
All Areas
| Requirement | Value | Conditions / Exceptions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Finished Side Required | Yes, finished side must face adjoining properties and streets | — | Sec. 14-603(6) |
| Material Restriction | No restrictions on material type in general zoning | Must be maintained in good condition and not constitute a hazard Exception: Electrified, barbed wire, or razor wire fences prohibited in residential districts | Sec. 14-603(2), Sec. 14-603(7) |
| Property Line Offset | 0 feet (allowed on property line) | Must be entirely on owner's property | Sec. 14-603(3) |
Front Yard
| Requirement | Value | Conditions / Exceptions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Height | 4 feet | Exception: May be increased to 6 feet if set back at least 15 feet from the street line | Sec. 14-603(4) |
Rear Yard
| Requirement | Value | Conditions / Exceptions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Height | 6 feet | — | Sec. 14-603(4) |
Side Yard
| Requirement | Value | Conditions / Exceptions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max Height | 6 feet | — | Sec. 14-603(4) |
Corner Lot
| Requirement | Value | Conditions / Exceptions | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sight Triangle Restriction | No fence or wall over 30 inches high within the sight triangle | Sight triangle defined as area formed by intersecting street lines and a line connecting points 15 feet back from the intersection on each street line | Sec. 14-603(1)(a) |
Official Code Language (4 sections)
Section 14-603(6) requires that the finished side of a fence or wall face adjoining properties and streets.
Per Sections 14-603(2) and 14-603(7), general zoning imposes no restrictions on the type of material used for fences or walls.
Under Section 14-603(3), fences and walls are permitted to be placed directly on the property line with no setback required.
Pursuant to Section 14-603(1)(a), any fence or wall located within the sight triangle of a corner lot shall not exceed 30 inches in height.
Permit Requirements
- When required
- Any fence over 6 feet in height; any fence in front yard; all retaining walls over 4 feet high
- Fee
- — Fees vary by scope; contact L&I for current schedule
- Where to apply
- Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I)
- Property survey or plot plan
- Fence design and dimensions
- Completed permit application
Verified June 1, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum fence height in a front yard?
In a front yard, the maximum fence height is 4 feet per Section 14-603(4).
Can I build a fence directly on my property line?
Yes, under Section 14-603(3), fences are allowed on the property line with zero offset.
Is there any height restriction for fences in a corner lot's sight triangle?
Yes, within the sight triangle of a corner lot, fences or walls cannot exceed 30 inches in height (Section 14-603(1)(a)).
Are there any material restrictions for fences in Philadelphia?
No, general zoning does not restrict fence material; you can use any material (Sec. 14-603(2) and Sec. 14-603(7)).
Sources
Data last verified: June 1, 2026
See how this works nationally: Fence Regulations by State
This is an informational summary, not legal advice. Verify current requirements with Philadelphia Planning Department .
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