The Zoning Ordinance regulates fence height and the location of sheds. Here are some key points and resources for residential lots.
Fence height is limited to 4 feet in most front yards. A yard that abuts a street is considered a front yard. For example, a corner lot has more than one front yard. Sight distance requirements apply on corner lots to ensure that people can see around the corner. In side and rear yards, fences can be up to 7 feet in height. Some lots that abut a major thoroughfare may have higher fence heights. More information is available on the Department of Code Compliance (DCC) Residential Fences and Walls flyer.
Sheds must meet the same location regulations as detached garages and similar accessory structures. On properties 36,000 square feet or less, sheds cannot be in a front yard. The following location regulations apply in a side or rear yard, depending on the shed’s height.
- Not exceeding 8.5 feet tall - no setback from the side or rear lot line required.
- Between 8.5 feet and 12 feet tall - must be at least 5 feet from the side and rear lot lines.
- Greater than 12 feet tall - must meet the zoning district’s minimum side setback and be located at least a distance equal to the shed’s height from the rear lot line.
More information on these location regulations is available on DCC’s Accessory Structure Location flyer.
Although most fences do not require a building permit, a shed may. The size of the shed will determine if a building permit is needed, and other permits may be required if any electrical, mechanical, or plumbing is installed. Land Development Services’ website provides more information about when a project requires a permit.
DCC is here to help - if you have questions, want to make a report, or if you are the subject of enforcement and need to contact us. You can report problems online, learn about what happens during an investigation, reach us via email, phone (703-324-1300 / TTY 711), or visit us in person at 12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 1016, Fairfax, VA 22035.
Deputy Director
703-324-3807, TTY 711