Fence Permit Information for Interior Lots

Rev 06/2025 (Permits are valid for 6 months)

What you need to know about a fence:

Call O.U.P.S. (Ohio Utility Protection Service) before you dig! 800-362-2764 In the front yard, the fence can be a maximum of 4 feet tall, but must be an open-style of fencing, such as a picket fence (but not a chain link). In the front yard, the fence can be no closer than 3 feet from the front lot line. In the rear and side yards, the fence can be a maximum of 6 feet tall. In the rear and side yards, the fence can be located on the lot line. It is the duty of property owners to determine property line locations and to ascertain that a fence constructed does not encroach on another lot or parcel of land.

What you need to submit with your permit application:

• Payments can be made with cash, check or money orders, or with MasterCard or Visa with card number and expiration date.
• A site plan showing the location of the proposed fence relative to property lines and existing structures;
• Details regarding the type and height of fence along with details on the building materials.

Types of fences permitted:

• Privacy (rear, side, and portions of street-side yards only)
• Chain link (rear yard only) - Note: all chain link fences & wire mesh components of other fences must be factory coated with vinyl or a similar protective material.
• Picket
• Split rail

Fences may be in the:

Front yard Side yard Rear yard

Note: This guide is not an exhaustive list of all applicable standards in Kettering’s zoning code regarding fences. This document is meant to serve as a general guide for residents. If there are any questions regarding this information, please contact Kettering’s Planning & Development Department by phone at 937-296-2441 or by email at Kettpnd@kettering.org.