Can a Fence Be Used for a Structure?

Fences and Structures

• Fences and outbuildings are regulated on private property, with the intention of balancing privacy with the right of adjacent property owners to retain aesthetics and views. Fences are constructed for boundary definition and privacy, and generally the fence is the only structure that's allowed on the property line. Outbuildings are required to be set back from the property line a prescribed minimum distance, typically 2 feet.

Fence Height

• Fence height is an important focus in regulations. Fences are restricted in height, with the maximum allowed height lower in the front yard than the side and rear yards. In the latter, the height limit is usually 6 feet in residential zones, though it varies. A building permit is needed to build a higher fence. While lattices, trellises or similar architectural ornamentation are usually permitted on a fence, the space above the fence is kept open.

Outbuildings Regulations

• In addition to the setback, outbuildings such as sheds and greenhouses are subject to regulations for lot coverage -- the area of the property taken up with structures -- height and size. Buildings under a certain size, usually 100 square feet, don't require permits, but the restrictions to design apply. Similar to fence regulations, the concern is with retaining the aesthetic quality of the residential neighborhood, as well as safety, while allowing the property owner full enjoyment of the property.

Structural Considerations

• Fences are not constructed to bear heavy loads. While the posts are embedded in footings, as buildings are, roofed structures require heavier load-bearing specifications that fence construction doesn't meet. The structure of a building isn't compatible with the low profile that fence regulations seek to establish. Buildings are also regulated for visual quality, and the lot coverage and setback requirements are in place to that effect. Fences can only be used for ornamental, lightweight structures such as lattice.