West Allis, Wisconsin Fence Regulations and Permits

West Allis, WI Fence Restrictions & Information Flyer

West Allis, WI – Residential Fence Permit and Regulation Guide

Step 1: Understand the Basics

Fences can be built in all residential districts of West Allis. While you won’t need a permit to build a fence, there are still several rules and regulations that must be adhered to. This guide will provide an overview of those requirements. The complete list can be found in the Revised Municipal Code of West Allis.

Note: If you’re dealing with non-1 or 2 family use properties, please contact the Planning Department at planning@westalliswi.gov for additional submission and approval requirements.

Step 2: Choose Your Materials Wisely

Fences must be built using approved materials. These can include prefabricated fencing available at retail stores or treated lumber. Sheet metal and other salvage materials are not allowed. The building inspector will confirm if your selected materials are suitable.

Table 1: Approved and Disapproved Fence Materials

Also, remember that electrified fences and barbed wire fences are not permitted on residential properties.

Step 3: Put the Good Side Out

Make sure the “good” side of your fence faces outward – towards the neighbor, the street, or the alley. This is a common etiquette and also a requirement in West Allis.

Step 4: Be a Good Neighbor

Before you start building, it’s a good idea to speak with your neighbors about your plans. This can help prevent any potential disputes regarding property lines or fence types. If you’re unsure of your property lines, consider hiring a surveyor or check with the Department of Building Inspection and Neighborhood Services to see if they have a current survey on file.

Note: All disputes related to property lines are civil matters between property owners. The City will not get involved in these disputes.

Step 5: Maintain Your Fence

As the owner of the fence, it’s your responsibility to keep it in good repair, even if it’s located right up to your neighbor’s lot line.

Step 6: Know Where and How High to Build

Your fence can go right up to, but not over, your property line or the City’s right-of-way. No fences are allowed in the front yard. Fences usually start at the front foundation wall of the house. In side and rear yards, you’re free to erect fences.

Table 2: Fence Height Limitations

*Vision Triangle is the area on a lot where two streets intersect; a street intersects with an alley; or an alley intersects with an alley.

Remember, for corner lots, the longer dimension of the lot along the street is considered the side yard. Fences are allowed here, but not in the required front yard setback.

For further inquiries, you can always contact the City of West Allis Code Enforcement Department at (414)302-8400 or visit them at 7525 W. Greenfield Ave., West Allis, WI 53214.

Happy fencing, West Allis residents!