Whether your property has a front gate, pool, or perimeter fence, these features add considerable value to any Lakeland home or business. Therefore, homeowners need to enlist qualified professionals for a replacement when they notice even minor issues.
One aspect of a fence replacement most people forget lies with permit needs. But do you need a permit to replace an existing fence?
Stop looking for the best home and pool fencing contractors near me and call My Fence Company. Expert fence contractors can guide you through the entire process of your replacement. Call today to schedule a service consultation.
Factors Impacting Permit Needs
A few key factors impact whether your replacement fence requires permits. Pay close attention to local codes and building permit laws while planning your new fence to avoid legal issues and fines. Fence replacement professionals also offer expert guidance on any gray areas.
Fence Height
When asking, “Do you need a permit to replace an existing fence?” you might not realize the importance of its height. Fences come in many different shapes and sizes. However, the higher you build your enclosure, the more likely you’ll need to obtain a permit for replacements.
Florida laws typically prohibit fences over six feet tall. However, residential fences over four feet tall will usually require permitting. Anything exceeding six feet may have to undergo more extensive approval processes with the local government.
Fence Material
Common fence materials like wood, PVC, and vinyl may not require permits. However, if you plan to build an enclosure with specialized materials like masonry and concrete, you’ll likely need to obtain a permit before beginning.
Location
Location encompasses many aspects of planning and building a fence. Beyond the location of your property, the place you plan to put the fence plays a major role.
Certain counties may have a Good Neighbor Fence Law for fences that stand on a property boundary. This regulation mandates that both the homeowner and neighbor share in the legal and financial burden of building the fence. Check local laws if you plan to build on a shared property line.
Property Type
Your permit needs will change depending on whether your property is residential or commercial. Typically, commercial buildings require more red tape when endeavoring any construction project, even a fence replacement.
Other Property Features
Do you have pools, gardens, or covered walkways in your yard? These features can affect your fence requirements and dictate what kinds of permitting you need for replacements. Check with your fence replacement professional to see if your property’s features create additional permitting needs.
Local Codes and Laws
Ultimately, the main guide for permit requirements will be local codes and laws. Always check with your local legislatures before beginning any construction project. Violating these laws could lead to steep fines and restrictions on future projects.
Common Fence Type Permit Needs
Although the factors determining fence permit needs should clarify whether you should obtain these documents, certain fence types might present exemptions to the rules. Thus, understanding some of the permit needs of common fence types can prove helpful.
Some of the most popular fences in Lakeland and whether they require permits to replace include the following:
- Residential privacy fence less than four feet tall: not required
- Wood fence: not required
- Retaining wall: not required
- Pool fence: required
- Residential fence over four feet: required
- Commercial barrier fence: required
Risks of Replacing a Fence Without a Permit
It can become frustrating to realize that you must take additional required steps before replacing your old, battered fence. However, the risks of ignoring permit requirements for these projects are much worse than the extra time it takes to obtain a permit.
The main risks of building a fence without a permit include:
- Fines of $100 a day
- Forced removal of the fence
- Restrictions on future projects
Secure Your Home With a High-Quality Fence Replacement From My Fence Company
When you choose a fence contractor in Lakeland to replace your existing fence, ensure quality and compliance by selecting professionals who have the licenses, certifications, and insurance to complete the job successfully. My Fence Company offers both residential and commercial clients top-rated services for fence installation, repair, and replacement jobs. With a reputation for excellence and financing options to aid every customer’s needs, My Fence Company is the best choice for your fence project.
So, do you need a permit to replace an existing fence? To learn more about the permit requirements for fence replacements in Lakeland, FL, contact My Fence Company and arrange a service consultation.
