When does a fence need a building permit in Denver?

Post-hole fences need a building permit above 8 ft; masonry, concrete and other wall types need one above 4 ft. Post-hole fences up to 8 ft don't need a building permit.

Do I also need a zoning permit for a fence in Denver?

All fences over 4 ft tall need a zoning permit in Denver, and so does any fence on a landmark, in a historic district or along a designated parkway.

Where do I apply for a fence permit in Denver?

Apply through Denver e-permits (Accela), or call 311 (720-913-1311).

Do you need a permit for a fence in Denver, CO?

It depends on size and placement.

Fences over 4 ft need a zoning permit; walls over 12 in do too.

In front of the house the cap is 4 ft; behind it, 6 ft.

Post-hole fences need a building permit only above 8 ft; other fence and wall types above 4 ft.

Rules last checked by a person on October 19, 2026. Guidance only; confirm with Denver before you build.

Check your exact lot

Setbacks depend on your zoning district, and a flood zone can change the permit answer. Enter your address to see both.

Permits a fence can need in Denver

Permit	When it applies
Zoning permit	All fences over 4 ft tall need a zoning permit in Denver, and so does any fence on a landmark, in a historic district or along a designated parkway.
Building permit	Post-hole fences need a building permit above 8 ft; masonry, concrete and other wall types need one above 4 ft.
Floodplain development permit	If the lot is in a FEMA special flood hazard area, all development there needs a permit.

Limits that apply citywide

Front yard (in front of the house)	4 ft max
Side and back yard (behind the front facade)	6 ft max
Sidewalk clearance	At least 6 in back from the public sidewalk

Local details

Call 811 at least a few days before you dig footings or post holes. Utility locating is free.
HOA covenants and deed restrictions can be stricter than city rules. Check yours before you build.

How to apply

Questions people ask

When does a fence need a building permit in Denver?: Post-hole fences need a building permit above 8 ft; masonry, concrete and other wall types need one above 4 ft. Post-hole fences up to 8 ft don't need a building permit.
Do I also need a zoning permit for a fence in Denver?: All fences over 4 ft tall need a zoning permit in Denver, and so does any fence on a landmark, in a historic district or along a designated parkway.
Where do I apply for a fence permit in Denver?: Apply through Denver e-permits (Accela), or call 311 (720-913-1311).

Sources

Denver CPD, Fences and Walls. Checked 2026-10-19.
All fences over four feet tall need a zoning permit... Post-hole dug fences only need a building permit if they are taller than eight feet, but all other fence and wall types require building permits if they are over four feet tall.
44 CFR 59.1, definition of development (NFIP). Checked 2026-10-19.
Development means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures...
44 CFR 60.3, floodplain management criteria. Checked 2026-10-19.
Require permits for all proposed construction or other development in the community...