Residential Fence Codes for Kenosha, WI

Home to at least 100,000 people, Kenosha is a Wisconsin Chicagoland suburb, located on the border between Wisconsin and Illinois. A city with a diverse cultural population, it has recently grown a great deal, with over half of its residents being relatively new to the area. It’s a commuter hub city, serving both Milwaukee and Chicago. Almost half of workers in the city commute to their jobs. Rapid growth and affordable homes have led the city to become one of the top US cities for first-time homebuyers. The city’s schools are highly rated, and ample recreational and learning opportunities are other strong attractions for families. With eight miles of Lake Michigan shoreline available to the public, Kenosha has a distinct lakeshore feel.

General Requirements for Residential Fences

Naturally, with so many new homeowners moving to this attractive city, home improvement projects are popular, including the installation of attractive fences. Codes and regulations in the city are based on common sense and easy to understand. Due to the specialized skills and hard work required, however, most homeowners in Kenosha choose to have professional contractors install their fence. This ensures a great appearance and lets owners focus on other home improvement projects. The information below outlines the codes and regulations for residential yard enclosure projects.

• Building Permit Required? – A permit is required for all construction projects. The permit fee is $60.
• Permit Documentation Needed – A drawing to scale of the property and its buildings, showing the location of the fence, is required. Sample drawings are on the permit application.
• Fence Materials Allowed – All typical residential materials are allowed, with some restrictions on designs in front yards and corner lots.
• Maximum Height Limits – 6′ is the maximum height for fences in Kenosha, with lower height limits in some locations on the lot.

• Property Line Issues – Owners are responsible for accurately locating property lines. Structures must be entirely on the owner’s property, with the finished side of the fence facing outward.
• Inspections Needed – A final inspection is required after completion.
• Building Authority Contact – 262-653-4263
• Building Department Website

Specific Rules and Ordinances

• Front Yard Fences – These are limited to 4′ in height, and must be of open, decorative design. Chain link materials are not allowed in front yards.
• Side and Back Yard Fences – Maximum height is 6′. All design types and materials are allowed in side yards.
• Corner Lot Restrictions – Sight line triangles, 15′ on each side, are required at street corners, driveways, alleys, and other roadways. Fences are limited to 3′ in height in such triangles.
• Swimming Pools Fences – These must be at least 4′ high and no less than 4′ from the pool or hot tub. Other restrictions may apply. A brochure is available from the Department of Community Development with complete information.

• Other Restrictions
  • Fences must be set back at least 6" from sidewalks.
  • Fences closer than 3′ from a neighboring property’s doors or windows require a review by the Zoning Commission before a permit is issued.
  • Fences located on top of a retaining wall or other raised area must be approved, after a pre-construction inspection is made.
  • All posts and structural supports must be on the property owner’s side of any fence.
  • Barbed wire and other hazardous fences are not permitted.
• Homeowner’s Association Issues – Where HOA covenants or restrictions are different from city regulations, homeowners must follow those rules.
• Commercial Fence Codes – Fences on commercial or multi-housing properties have different codes, which vary by zone. Zoning Commission approval is required for all such projects.

Kenosha Residential Fence Ordinances and Rules in Wisconsin

Whether you’re planning a fence for security, to protect children and pets, or just to beautify your home, the value of your project depends on the quality of both its materials and installation. That’s why most homeowners choose to hire experienced local contractors, instead of doing the job themselves. Installing fences is more complicated and difficult than most DIY projects. Contact local building contractors and discuss your ideas with them. They’ll show you a wider range of materials and designs than you can find in local building supply outlets. They’ll also give you comprehensive price quotes for the entire project. When the contractor goes to work, they’ll get your project finished quickly and professionally, so it will grace your home and last for decades to come.