Fences

Yes, you need a permit to build, move, replace or repair fences in Sioux Falls.

Permits make sure fences are safe, meet height rules, and don’t block views for drivers and pedestrians.

In general, Sioux Falls allows all except electric fences. Barbed wire fences would only be approved on lots that are not adjacent to or used as residential. There are additional rules if your property in a historic district. Call the zoning office to learn if your property is within a historic district and what those additional requirements are.

Some neighborhoods have covenants in place that may have additional rules about fences. To learn more about covenants on your property, please check with your local county register of deeds. (Minnehaha: 605-367-4223; Lincoln: 605-764-5661). Please note, the city does not enforce covenants.

For interior lots, fences can be up to 6’ tall anywhere in the backyard. For corner and double frontage lots, front yard setback rules apply, but fences up to four feet tall are allowed in required front yard setbacks. 

There are a few exceptions to allow for taller fences on non-residential lots. To learn more about this, please reach out to the zoning office.

Yes, but there are height rules. Fences can be up to 4’ tall in the front yard. Height and opaqueness are reduced when the fence is in an intersection safety zone. Keep in mind you may have more than one front yard.

There are exceptions for double frontage and corner residential lots where one of the front yards abuts an arterial or collector street. To qualify for an exception, the frontage cannot have a driveway that goes to the arterial or collector street. The exception options are:

1.     6’ fence is allowed if set back 10’ from the property line abutting the arterial or collector street.

2.     5’ fenced is allowed if set back 5’ from the property line abutting the arterial or collector street.

3.     6’ fenced is allowed on the property line abutting the arterial or collector street if it meets one of the following conditions:

a.     Staggered: Fence is staggered so that at least 1/3 of the fence length varies by at least ten feet.

b.     Columned: Fence includes masonry columns (16’ by 16’ minimum) every 24’. Extra columns are needed at corners, turning points, and where the fence ends.

c.      Capped: Wood fence is upgraded with exposed posts, top caps, and trim boards. Vinyl fences typically meet this requirement.

d.     Decorative Metal: Fence is made of wrought iron material.

Please reach out to the zoning office to confirm if your property can use an exception option and if your proposed design would qualify.

In general, you can build up to the property line, but there are a few things to keep in mind. There are additional height and transparency guidelines within an intersection vision clearance area. If there is an easement along the property line, you will need permission to build within there.

Permits are issued with the understanding that you know where your property lines are located. A fence permit only grants approval to build a fence on the property identified in the application. To learn where your property lines are, please reach out to a licensed surveyor. The City does not locate property lines for you.

Any disagreement about the location of a fence is a civil issue between you and your neighbor. The city can provide the approved site plan. A licensed surveyor can identify and mark property lines.