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Fence permitting depends on the type of materials, height, and location of the fence. In cities, you may find that fences of any height need permits. A different scenario is that fences in the back of the home over 6 feet tall require a permit, and fences in front over 3.5 feet do require permits.
Then, what happens if I build a fence without a permit?
OBTAIN A BUILDING PERMIT. If you build a fence without a permit, chances are you'll get caught. Most municipalities enforce zoning laws that regulate fence height, materials used and even the style of fence if you live in a historic district. You can apply for a fence permit at your local building and planning office.
Considering this, do you need a permit for a backyard fence?
As a general rule, adding outdoor structures, like a fence, requires a permit, but the real answer depends upon the codes, zoning and regulations of where you live. According to Find Law, “most fencing laws limit the height of artificial fences in residential areas to four feet in front yards and six feet in backyards.
Fences of any type exceeding 6 feet in height or masonry fences of any height will require a building permit. If the fence is less than 6 feet in height and is nonmasonry, you are not required to have a building permit, but you are still required to follow the county's planning regulations concerning fences.