How to use this guide
Skim the headings, expand details where you need more, and follow the official links when you're ready.
Understanding This Wilmington Fence Guide
📍How to use this guide
This guide breaks down Wilmington's rules on permits, heights, placement, materials, and special cases.
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Fence Permit Requirements in Wilmington, NC
✅Is a Fence Permit Required?
Yes—City authorization ensures compliance with LDC rules.
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🧭City & County Steps
City Zoning compliance first; County Building permit if applicable.
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🧾What You Need to Apply
Property info, site plan/sketch, fence type/materials, fees.
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💳Fees
City zoning review fee; County fees if a building permit is needed.
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☎️Contacts
City Zoning and NHC Building Safety phone numbers.
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Wilmington Fence Height Limits & Regulations
🏡Residential District Heights
Front: 4 ft (or up to 6 ft with conditions on thoroughfares); side/rear: up to 8 ft.
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🏢Non‑Residential District Heights
Street yards: solid to 3 ft; taller allowed if above 3 ft is ≥ 50% open; selected exemptions.
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Fence Location & Setback Rules
📍Fence Placement on Property Lines
Permitted within required yards and up to property lines; front-yard variance setback minimum applies.
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🛠️Fences and Easements
Avoid recorded drainage/utility/access easements without authorization.
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🚦Corner Lot Visibility (Sight Triangle)
Maintain clear sight triangles per LDC §18‑556.
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Material & Appearance Standards
🪵Finished Side & Prohibited Materials
Good side out; front yards restrict chain link, woven wire, electric, barbed wire; other prohibitions apply.
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🧹Fence Maintenance Requirements
Keep in good repair—upright, no missing parts, maintained finishes.
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Special Cases & Considerations
🏘️HOA Rules for Fences
HOA rules are separate and may be stricter—comply with both.
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🏛️Fences in Historic Districts
COA required from HPC; Historic Design Guidelines apply.
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🏊Wilmington Pool Fence Requirements
Typical barrier rules for height/openings/climb resistance and self‑closing/latching gates.
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🌊Waterfront Property Fences (CAMA)
AEC areas may require a CAMA permit—check with NC DCM.
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Official Wilmington Fence Resources & Citations
🔗Official Links
City site, LDC, Zoning, Applications & Fees, County Planning/COAST/FAQ.
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Important Disclaimer
This information is for general guidance only, based on public sources. Regulations and procedures can change. Always verify with the City of Wilmington and New Hanover County before construction.
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