Do I need a permit for fence installation or replacement in Memphis?
It depends. Whether fence installation or replacement needs a permit in Memphis comes down to the details of your project.
Fence rules are driven largely by zoning (height, corner-lot sight lines, and placement relative to property lines) rather than the building code, so confirm with the joint Memphis and Shelby County office whether your fence needs a permit. Construction Code Enforcement reviews the subdivision plat for setbacks and any landscaping requirements before issuing residential permits. This is general guidance; verify the current fence permit and height rules with the authority. A fence taller than 7 feet is outside the exemption in Section R105.2 of the 2018 International Residential Code, which the State Fire Marshal enforces in areas that have not opted out, so a permit is required there. A local program can set its own line, so confirm locally. Tennessee runs a state residential building code program. The State Fire Marshal enforces the 2018 International Residential Code for one and two family dwellings and townhouses in areas that have not had local code enforcement approved instead and have not opted out by a two thirds vote of the city or county legislative body. Where that program applies, Section R105.2 exempts fences not over 7 feet high. Where a local government runs its own program, its ordinance sets the fence rules, and local zoning height, corner-visibility and front-yard limits apply either way. Confirm with your local codes or zoning office. Barrier requirements are stricter around swimming pools, and locating a fence on the property line without a survey risks encroachment disputes.
Documents you may need
- Permit application (Develop901 / Accela portal)Sometimes required
- Site plan showing fence location relative to property linesSometimes required
- Permit application (where required)Sometimes required
- Site plan / plat showing fence location, height, and property linesLikely required
Possible inspections
- Final / setback verification where a permit is required
- Zoning / location review in some jurisdictions
- Final inspection where a permit is issued
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit for fence installation or replacement in Memphis?
- It depends. Whether fence installation or replacement needs a permit in Memphis comes down to the details of your project. Fence rules are driven largely by zoning (height, corner-lot sight lines, and placement relative to property lines) rather than the building code, so confirm with the joint Memphis and Shelby County office whether your fence needs a permit. Construction Code Enforcement reviews the subdivision plat for setbacks and any landscaping requirements before issuing residential permits. This is general guidance; verify the current fence permit and height rules with the authority. A fence taller than 7 feet is outside the exemption in Section R105.2 of the 2018 International Residential Code, which the State Fire Marshal enforces in areas that have not opted out, so a permit is required there. A local program can set its own line, so confirm locally. Tennessee runs a state residential building code program. The State Fire Marshal enforces the 2018 International Residential Code for one and two family dwellings and townhouses in areas that have not had local code enforcement approved instead and have not opted out by a two thirds vote of the city or county legislative body. Where that program applies, Section R105.2 exempts fences not over 7 feet high. Where a local government runs its own program, its ordinance sets the fence rules, and local zoning height, corner-visibility and front-yard limits apply either way. Confirm with your local codes or zoning office. Barrier requirements are stricter around swimming pools, and locating a fence on the property line without a survey risks encroachment disputes.
- Who issues the permit in Memphis?
- The local building department for Memphis handles permitting. This page lists its contact details and online portal. Your mailing city is not always the permitting authority, so confirm the jurisdiction before you apply.
- How do I find out the exact requirements for my project?
- Run the free PermitRoadmap check for your specific project and answers. It returns the likely permits, documents, inspections, and next steps, each linked to its official source.
PermitRoadmap is an independent informational service and is not affiliated with any city, county, state agency, or permitting authority. Results are informational and do not replace confirming requirements with the local permitting authority.