What kinds of fences are prohibited in Ferndale?
Section 3.08.C bans several fence types outright:
- Razor edge or barbed wire.
- Spikes, nails, or sharp points.
- Any electrical current or charge.
- Fabric, plastic slats, or tarps hung from fences.
The electrical ban is broad. It covers any current or charge, so electrified pet fencing along a fence line falls under it; ask the city before installing anything energized.
The fabric and tarp rule matters for privacy screens. Hanging a tarp, mesh, or plastic slats on a chain-link fence is prohibited, even temporarily. If you want full privacy, side and rear yards allow fully opaque fences up to 6 feet in residential districts (Section 3.08.D).
Material standards also apply: wood fences must be cedar, redwood, or decay-resistant, with the finished side facing outward (Section 3.08.E). A Fence Permit is required for any fence or gate (Section 3.08.A). Questions go to Community and Economic Development at 248-336-4370.
Sources
Full text: Ferndale ordinance on city-hosted PDF (Municipal Code Online mirror). Applies to district: *.
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