Fence or deck costs in Raleigh

Raleigh asks for a zoning permit for every fence, on any property. Replacing part of a fence counts too, once you swap half or more of it, or change its material, height or spot, even on a shorter stretch. The application needs a picture of the fence you want and a site plan showing where it goes.

The city's Unified Development Ordinance shapes what you can build out front. Chain-link isn't allowed in a front or side street setback outside heavy industrial zones. A fence there can reach 6 and a half feet, but anything above 4 feet has to be at least half open. Think pickets or metal with gaps, not solid boards.

Busy roads have their own rule. Within 20 feet of a thoroughfare right-of-way, a fence that's at least half solid has to stay under 42 inches. The other choice is to set it at least 15 feet back and screen it with evergreen plants. In side and rear setbacks away from the street, the limit is 8 feet. No straight, unbroken run can go past 100 feet without a column, plants, an open section or a change of material. On a long back lot line, that can mean adding a feature you didn't plan on.

One more stop applies outside the sewer lines. If your lot runs on a private well or septic system, Wake County has to approve the fence too.