Fence Permit requirements across Arizona
By Mario Bailey Last verified 2026-06-17
Requirements and size thresholds for fence permits vary by locality. The table below compares what each Arizona county or city requires. Always confirm with the local office before starting.
| Locality | Permit required? | Typical threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Maricopa County | Conditional | any fence over 1 foot in height requires at minimum a drainage clearance permit; fences over 6 feet require a building permit and zoning clearance |
| Mesa | Conditional | fences under 6 feet in height do not require a permit; fences 6 feet or taller require a building permit |
| Phoenix | Conditional | fences and walls over 3 feet tall require a permit; fences under 3 feet tall are exempt |
| Scottsdale | Conditional | walls and fences 3 feet or shorter do not require a permit except retaining walls; fences over 3 feet require a building permit |