Can I build a fence in Surprise?
Yes, subject to a building permit and the LDO's own fence and screening standard (Sec. 107-2.5), part of the Planning and Engineering Design Standards in Chapter 107. In residential districts, fences are capped at 6 feet (8 feet absolute maximum with an architectural cap), with lower limits inside the required front setback (2 feet for a solid fence, 4 feet for a view fence, 5 feet for a view fence in the RR district). Fences must sit 2 feet back from a utility easement abutting a right-of-way, and chain link, razor wire, barbed wire, and electrified fencing are prohibited outside specific exceptions (temporary uses, certain recreational facilities, and barbed wire for agricultural operations). Commercial and industrial fences instead follow the PEDS screening standards. Confirm the exact standard for your yard and zoning district with Community Development, Planning and Zoning (623-222-3000) before building. This pack covers incorporated Surprise only; unincorporated Maricopa County land uses county zoning.
Sources
Full text: Surprise ordinance on Municode. Applies to districts: R-1, C-2.
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