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SetbackIQ

Fences and walls in Montgomery County, MD

Every new fence needs a DPS permit. Fences up to 6.5 ft (8 ft next to commercial or industrial zones) are exempt from setbacks, and height is measured from the lowest grade under the fence.

A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Montgomery County before you build.

The details

  • Corner lots: fences, walls and other obstructions are limited to 3 ft above the curb within 15 ft of the corner.Medium confidence
  • Replacing a permitted fence in the same place at the same height needs no new permit.High confidence

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SetbackIQ reads the zoning, flood zone, historic district, and environmental maps for your lot. Then it applies these rules.

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Common questions

How tall can a fence or wall be in Montgomery County?
Every new fence needs a DPS permit. Fences up to 6.5 ft (8 ft next to commercial or industrial zones) are exempt from setbacks, and height is measured from the lowest grade under the fence.

Sources

  1. Montgomery County Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 59), Articles 59-3, 59-4 and 59-6 (Zoneomics copy of the official American Legal text). Checked 2026-10-21
    [6.4.3.C] Fences, walls and other visual obstructions [on corner lots in Residential zones] are limited to 3 feet above curb level for 15 feet from the intersection of the front and side street lines... [4.1.7.B.5] Residential mechanical equipment, includin…
  2. Montgomery County DPS, Permits Required / No Permits Required (2024). Checked 2026-10-21
    [Likely requires a permit:] Accessory Structure; Deck; Driveway (apron only); Electrical Work; Exterior Work on Historic Property; Fence; Garage; Hot Tub; HVAC Heating (replacing); Land Disturbance (greater than 5,000 square feet or 100 cubic yards or more …

Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.