How to Apply for a Fence Permit

1. Get your plot plan. Find your plot plan, mortgage survey or property survey. The building department or your closing papers often have a copy. If none exists, draw one.
2. Draw the fence on it. Show the fence line, gates and fence height, and write the length of each run next to the line. Most communities want two copies; keep a clean copy for yourself.
3. Fill out the permit application. Use your community's fence or building permit application (find your community). Some also ask you to sign a copy of the fence ordinance, include a copy of your driver's license, or include your contract or materials list showing the project cost.
4. Pay the fee and submit. Fees range from free to a charge per foot of fence, and some communities require a refundable bond. Submit everything to the Building Department in the order the application lists, in person, by mail or online where offered.
5. Wait for approval. If the application is denied or needs changes, call the building department, ask exactly what needs to change, and resubmit. Do not dig until the permit is issued.
6. Call MISS DIG 811 at least three business days before you dig. How it works.
7. Schedule inspections. Many communities inspect the post holes before concrete is poured and the finished fence. Keep the permit on site until the final inspection passes.

Common local rules include "good side out" (the finished side faces the neighbor or street), height limits in front and corner-side yards, setbacks from the lot line, and neighbor affidavits for fences on a shared line. Homeowner association rules can be stricter than the city's, so check them too.