Fence Installation Permits in Detroit

Local Rule

City of Detroit Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department

Detroit exempts a fence not more than 7 feet high from a building permit, per the city's own BSEED exemption list; a retaining wall not more than 4 feet is also exempt. Residential fences are typically limited to 4 feet in the front yard and 6 feet in the back yard, so a fence built to the 7-foot no-permit ceiling in most yards would exceed the zoning maximum. Fence construction permits, when required, must be obtained from BSEED, and properties within a designated historic district are additionally subject to review by the Historic District Commission using the district's own Elements of Design; the Commission may allow exceptions it views as beneficial to the overall appropriateness of a fence proposal. Fencing must be properly installed according to Detroit codes and regulations.

Source · Verified September 2026

Detroit Building Department

Hours and procedures can change — call ahead to confirm.

How This Compares to Wayne County

Detroit's own rule is shown above (No permit under 7 sqft). Here is the separate rule that applies at the county level, for context:

City of Detroit / Wayne County

In Wayne County (Detroit), Michigan fence rules are set locally; most cities require a permit for fences over 6 feet, limit front-yard fences to about 4 feet, and add sight-line rules on corner lots. Confirm with your municipality.

See the full county page

Nearby Cities with Verified Rules

Other cities near Detroit with a confirmed fence installation rule:

FAQs

Building It Yourself? Here's What You'll Need

Popular tools and materials homeowners use for a fence installation project:

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