Need a new fence in Pacific, Missouri?

Local Fencing Laws and Permits: What You Need to Know Before Installing

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Installing a fence in Pacific, Missouri, requires adherence to specific local regulations and obtaining the necessary permits. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process:

 

Permit Requirements

 

Before constructing a new fence or replacing an existing one, you must obtain a building permit from the City of Pacific's Building Department. The property owner is responsible for securing this permit unless a contractor is hired, in which case the contractor assumes this responsibility. Applications can be submitted through the Building Department's permit application forms.

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General Fence Provisions

 

• Front Yard Restrictions: Constructing fences in front yards is prohibited. 

• Side Yard Restrictions: Fences in side yards must not extend past the front corner of the primary dwelling or be less than 25 feet from the street edge, whichever is greater. Additionally, fences adjacent to city streets or thoroughfares deemed a detriment to public safety by the Director of Public Works are prohibited. 

• Rear Yard Allowances: Fences are permitted in rear yards, provided they comply with front and side yard requirements. 

• Height Regulations: Fences must be between three and six feet in height, ensuring adequate access for firefighting. Exceptions apply in commercial and industrial districts. 

• Prohibited Materials: Barbed wire fences are only allowed within agricultural, commercial, or industrial districts. In commercial or industrial areas, the lowest strand must be a minimum of six feet off the ground. Constructing barbed wire fences in unapproved districts or without City Council approval is unlawful. Electrified fencing is only permitted in A-1 agricultural districts, except for low-voltage pet containment systems, which are allowed in any district. 

• Encroachment: All fences must be built to ensure no part encroaches upon adjoining properties.

 

Maintenance Requirements

 

Fences must be maintained in good repair, free from debris, trash, and weeds, in accordance with the International Property Maintenance Code. Dilapidated, dangerous, or unsightly fences should be repaired or removed. If a fence has deteriorated more than 50%, it must be reconstructed or removed. Routine maintenance does not require a permit. When a fence is located on an adjoining lot line, the owner responsible for its construction is also responsible for its maintenance and repair.

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Safety Considerations

 

No person shall erect or maintain any fence on, along, or adjacent to any public roadway that affects public health, safety, or welfare by obstructing vehicular or pedestrian traffic or sight lines. Such fences are declared nuisances and are prohibited.

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Application Process

 

To apply for a fence permit, submit the following to the Building Department:

• A completed permit application form.

• A site plan or survey clearly showing the proposed fence location.

• Details of the fence's height, materials, and design.

 

Ensure compliance with all local regulations to avoid potential fines or the need to alter non-compliant fences. For detailed guidelines and example plans, refer to the city's Guidelines and Examples page.

pacificmissouri.com

 

Professional Consultation

 

Before starting your fencing project, it’s always a good idea to consult with a local fence contractor who is familiar with Pacific’s permit policies and zoning regulations. A knowledgeable contractor can help ensure that your fence meets all legal requirements, preventing costly modifications or fines down the line. They can also assist with the permit application process and provide expert advice on materials, design, and installation. By working with a professional, you can save time and ensure that your fence is built safely, legally, and to your satisfaction.