If you are thinking about building a new fence in Dallas, the first step is understanding the Dallas fence permit process. Many homeowners across the DFW area want to add fences for privacy, safety, or curb appeal, but they are not sure about the rules and requirements. Each city in the DFW area has its own standards for fence construction, and Dallas is no exception. The City of Dallas has specific regulations that determine when a permit is required, what materials are allowed, and how tall a fence can be in different parts of a property. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining a Dallas fence permit in 2025, using clear information gathered directly from city websites.

Do You Need a Dallas Fence Permit?

The most common question is whether you need a permit at all. In the City of Dallas, a fence permit is not required if your fence is 4 feet tall or lower in the front yard or 6 feet or lower in the backyard or side yard. This rule applies to most residential properties in the Dallas area.

You do need a Dallas fence permit if:

• The fence is taller than 4 feet in the front yard or taller than 6 feet anywhere else on the property.
• The fence is part of a swimming pool barrier, which is always required to have a permit.
• The fence is taller than 9 feet, which requires a special level of approval including engineered drawings and a hearing before the Board of Adjustment.

Understanding these rules is the foundation for starting construction. If you build without obtaining the proper permit, you may face delays, fines, or even be required to remove your fence.

Dallas Fence Height and Placement Regulations

The City of Dallas has clear regulations about where fences can be built and how tall they can be depending on location.

Front Yard Fence Rules

In a front yard, the maximum fence height is 4 feet. If the fence is less than 50 percent open, meaning it is a solid style like wood panels, it must be set back at least 5 feet from the front property line. This requirement helps preserve visibility and maintains the open look of Dallas neighborhoods.

Side and Backyard Fence Rules

In side yards and backyards, fences can be up to 6 feet tall without a permit. Anything higher requires obtaining a permit from the City of Dallas. For most residential homeowners, this is the common situation, as privacy fences are usually 6 feet.

Over 9 Feet Tall Fences

When a fence goes over 9 feet, the city requires more than a basic permit. These projects must meet engineered standards and go before the Board of Adjustment. While rare for residential construction, it is a key regulation that applies in Dallas.

Dallas Fence Material Restrictions

Not all materials are allowed for fences in Dallas. The city lists prohibited materials to maintain safety and neighborhood standards.

Allowed Materials

Typical residential fences are built from wood, vinyl, masonry, or wrought iron. These meet Dallas codes and provide durability for property owners.

Prohibited Materials

You cannot use sheet metal, corrugated metal, fiberglass panels, plywood, or thin plastics. Razor ribbon and barbed wire are not allowed in residential locations. These rules help keep the level of safety high and ensure construction quality.

Pool Fence Requirements in Dallas

Pool fences are treated differently because of safety concerns. Every pool in the City of Dallas must be enclosed by a barrier that complies with local codes.

Key requirements include:

• The barrier must be at least 48 inches tall.
• Fence openings cannot allow a 4-inch sphere to pass through.
• Gates must be self-closing and self-latching.
• Alarms and latch heights must meet city standards.

Unlike a normal backyard fence, a pool fence always requires obtaining a permit. The city websites make it clear that pool barriers are strictly regulated for residential safety.

How to Apply for a Dallas Fence Permit Using City Websites

Step 1 – Prepare Your Documents

The city requires a complete set of documents before reviewing your application. These include a site plan showing the location of the fence, a plat map of your property, details about materials and openness, and easement approvals if needed.

Step 2 – Submit Through ProjectDox

All fence permits in Dallas are processed online through the city’s ProjectDox system. Homeowners can find detailed instructions on city websites about how to upload plans and information. If your property is in a Historic District, Conservation District, or Planned Development District, you will need additional approvals before your permit can be issued.

Step 3 – Pay Permit Fees

Permit fees in Dallas are based on the value of construction, with a minimum fee that starts around $175 as of July 2025. It is important to check the current fee list because city fee schedules are updated regularly.

Step 4 – Schedule Inspections

Once your fence is complete, the city requires an inspection. This is scheduled through the DallasNow connection system. Inspectors check fence height, property line placement, visibility triangles, and whether all requirements are met.

Fence Permits in Special Dallas Districts

Historic Districts

If your property is in a Historic District, you must obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Landmark Commission before building a fence. This is in addition to the standard Dallas fence permit.

Conservation Districts

For homes in Conservation Districts, the city requires a Conservation District Work Review. These rules protect neighborhood character and ensure fences follow local standards.

Planned Development Districts

Some Planned Developments in Dallas have their own codes for fences. When applying for a permit, these additional requirements will be reviewed.

Dallas vs Dallas County Fence Permits

Not every property in the DFW area falls under the City of Dallas. Some properties are located in unincorporated Dallas County. If your location is outside the city limits, you must follow Dallas County regulations and apply through MGOConnect instead of the city websites. The county has its own list of requirements for fence construction. Understanding whether your property is in the city or county is the first step in obtaining the correct permit.

Common Mistakes with Fence Permits

Many homeowners run into the same problems when trying to build a fence. Here is a list of mistakes to avoid:

• Building over an easement without approval.
• Blocking a corner visibility triangle, which violates city codes.
• Not obtaining a pool fence permit.
• Using materials that the city prohibits.
• Assuming a contractor handled the paperwork when no permit was filed.

Each of these issues can delay construction and may result in fines or removal orders from the city.

How Cool Cat Fence Helps Dallas Homeowners

At Cool Cat Fence, we make the Dallas fence permit process simple. Our team has deep knowledge of Dallas regulations and knows how to navigate the system quickly. We handle drawings, applications, and communication with the city, saving you time and stress. Because we specialize in residential fence construction in the DFW area, we know the local codes and requirements inside and out.

We also focus on building fences that look stylish, meet city standards, and stand the test of time. Whether you are in North Dallas, Oak Cliff, Lake Highlands, or even in nearby Fort Worth, our connection to the community means we understand neighborhood expectations. We believe obtaining a fence permit should not hold up your project, and we guide you from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Dallas Fence Permits Questions

How much does a Dallas fence permit cost in 2025?

Fees start at around $175 and increase based on construction value. Always check the current city fee list.

How long does it take to obtain a Dallas fence permit?

Most permits are reviewed within two weeks if documents are complete. Special districts like Historic areas may take longer.

Do I need a permit to replace an existing fence?

If you replace a fence at the same height and location, a permit is not required. If you increase the height or use prohibited materials, a permit is necessary.

Can I build a fence on my property line?

Yes, but you must comply with easement rules, setback requirements, and visibility standards. It is smart to confirm your property lines before construction.

Do HOA rules override city regulations?

Homeowner associations can create stricter standards but cannot allow what the city prohibits. Always check both HOA and city requirements before obtaining a fence permit.

Ready to Build Your Dallas Fence?

The Dallas fence permit process may feel overwhelming at first, but with the right information and team, it becomes straightforward. From understanding height limits to preparing documents and passing inspections, following city rules ensures your project is completed on time and to code. At Cool Cat Fence, we take care of the hard parts so you can enjoy the finished product. If you are ready to start fence construction in Dallas, Fort Worth, or anywhere in the DFW area, contact us today. **We will help you obtain the right permit, design a fence that fits your property, and build something that adds beauty and value to your home.