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.