New Berlin Fence Regulations Made Simple

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HOW TO AVOID FENCE CODE VIOLATIONS IN NEW BERLIN

NEW BERLIN WI FENCE INSTALLATION REGULATIONS 

Fencing can enhance your property’s appeal and provide privacy, but it’s important to follow the regulations set by the City of New Berlin. We’ve simplified the regulations to make it easier for homeowners to understand. Take a look:

Fence Location and Height

When it comes to fence height, it’s measured from the average grade of the ground beneath the fence. Here’s a breakdown of the regulations for different yard areas:

Front Yard:

• • The fence should not be closer to the street than the base setback line.
  • The maximum height allowed is 50 inches.
  • In the vision clearance triangle, the fence should not exceed three feet in height above the street level.
  • If you have a corner lot, the side facing the side street is also considered a front yard.

Side and Rear Yards:

• • Fences in the side or rear yards should not exceed 74 inches in height.
  • On double frontage lots, the side facing the rear street is considered a rear yard.
  • Maintenance-free materials, such as metal fences (chain-link, wrought-iron, aluminum), PVC/recycled materials, and pressure-treated wood, can be located on the lot line.
  • Fences made of materials other than maintenance-free materials should be at least two feet from the property line.
  • Fences should be located outside of easement areas, unless approved by the Plan Commission.
  • Fences should not block or disrupt existing drainage patterns.

Here’s a table summarizing the height restrictions for fences in front yards, side yards, and backyards in both residential and commercial districts in New Berlin, WI:

Fence Construction

It’s essential to ensure your fence is constructed properly. Here are the key construction regulations:

Structural and Support Components:

• • All structural and support components of the fence should face away from adjacent properties.

Straight and Plumb:

• • All fences should be constructed straight and plumb.
  • Any fence that is not constructed in a straight and plumb condition, such as certain types of split-rail fences, requires review and approval by the Plan Commission.

Nonresidential Districts:

• • Fences in nonresidential districts should adhere to specific regulations outlined in § 275-59.

Fence Maintenance

To keep your fence in good condition, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• • All fences should be maintained in good repair at all times.
  • Signs or displays are not allowed on fences.
  • Avoid storing any materials between the fence and the lot line.

Permits

In most cases, you won’t need a permit for your fence if it meets the above criteria. However, permits are required for the following scenarios:

Front Yard Fence:

• • If the fence exceeds 50 inches but does not exceed 74 inches in height, a permit from the Department of Community Development (DCD) is required.

Taller Fences:

• • If the fence exceeds 74 inches in height, Plan Commission review and approval are necessary.

Exception for Snow Fence

Temporary snow fences, designed to catch wind-blown snow, have specific rules. They are exempt from the general fence requirements but must adhere to the following guidelines:

• • Installation is permitted between November 1 and April 1 each year.

Understanding and complying with these regulations will help ensure that your fence installation in New Berlin, WI, is done correctly and in accordance with the local guidelines.

Disclaimer:

The information provided by Fence Finders LLC regarding building permits and regulations is for general informational purposes only. All information on the site is provided in good faith; however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information on the site.