Can I build an 8-foot privacy fence in Royal Oak?

Yes, with conditions. Royal Oak allows privacy screens up to 8 feet tall, but only in the rear yard, only on the interior of the lot, and at least 6 feet in from the property lines (City Code § 323-3E).

That 6-foot offset is the part most people miss. An 8-foot screen cannot run along your lot line the way a normal fence does. On the line itself, the standard limits apply: 6 feet generally, and 4 feet in a front yard (City Code § 323-3B).

Section 323-6 expressly requires a fence permit; confirm with the Building Department whether the proposed structure is classified as a fence or a privacy screen and what permit is required. If your situation makes the 6-foot offset impractical, the Zoning Board of Appeals can hear a waiver request on a showing of practical difficulties (City Code § 323-5D). Check the city's posted meeting schedule if you go that route.

Along shared property lines, § 323-3B applies the least restrictive regulation. The driveway visibility restriction concerns sight-obscuring fences and privacy screens (§ 323-3D). Confirm the yard/property-line situation before applying a height number.