Permit Requirements

General Trend: Most counties require permits for fences exceeding 6 feet in height or made of certain materials (masonry, concrete). Fences acting as pool barriers almost always need permits.

County-Specific Notes:

• Orange County:
  
  • Generally requires permits for most fences, with exceptions for some residential fences under 6 feet.
  • Online permitting system called “Fast Track.”  
  • May require HOA approval in addition to county permits.
  • Orange County Permitting Website
• Osceola County:
  
  • Similar to Orange County, permits are often needed, but with exceptions.
  • Online permitting system through their website.
  • Floodplain regulations may apply in certain areas.
  • Osceola County Building Division
• Seminole County:
  
  • Permits generally required, especially for fences over 6 feet or near easements.  
  • Online permitting available.
  • May have stricter rules in certain areas or for specific fence types.
  • Seminole County Development Services [invalid URL removed]
• Lake County:
  
  • Permits typically needed, with some exemptions for shorter residential fences.
  • Online permitting system.
  • May have specific rules for agricultural fences or those in rural areas.
  • Lake County Building Division [invalid URL removed]
• Polk County:
  
  • Permits generally required, even for some sheds and smaller structures.
  • Online permitting system.
  • Emphasis on ensuring compliance with Florida Building Code.
  • Polk County Building Division

Key Reminders:

• HOA Rules: Even if a county permit isn’t required, your HOA might have its own rules and approval processes. ALWAYS check with your HOA before starting any fence project.
• Property Surveys: It’s a good idea to have a property survey to ensure your fence is placed correctly within your property lines, avoiding potential disputes with neighbors.
• Contact the County: When in doubt, contact the building department of the specific county where your property is located. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date information on permit requirements and any local regulations that may apply.

By staying informed and obtaining the necessary permits, you ensure your fence project complies with local regulations, preventing potential issues and ensuring a smooth and successful installation.

HOA Fence Requirements:

Ah, HOAs. Those sometimes mysterious organizations that keep our neighborhoods looking spick-and-span. But when it comes to fences, HOAs can also be a source of confusion and frustration. “Can I build a fence?” “What kind of fence is allowed?” “What about the color?” Don’t worry, we’re here to shed some light on those HOA fence requirements in a friendly, easy-to-understand way!

Why HOAs Care About Fences

First things first, why do HOAs even have rules about fences? Well, it’s all about keeping the neighborhood looking its best and maintaining property values. They want to make sure your fence fits in with the overall aesthetic of the community and doesn’t cause any problems for your neighbors. Think of it like a team effort to keep everyone happy! 

Common HOA Fence Rules in Central Florida

While every HOA is different, here are some common fence rules you might encounter in Central Florida:

• Height Restrictions: There’s often a maximum height allowed, usually around 6 feet. This prevents fences from blocking views or creating a fortress-like feeling.

• Material Matters: Some HOAs prefer certain materials, like wood or vinyl, while others might restrict things like chain link. It’s all about keeping a consistent look and feel throughout the neighborhood.

• Color Codes: Neutral colors like white, beige, or natural wood stains are often preferred. This helps create a harmonious look and avoids any clashes with your neighbor’s landscaping.

• Style Standards: Some HOAs might have rules about the style of your fence, like whether it can be a privacy fence, a picket fence, or something more decorative.

• Placement and Setbacks: There might be rules about how close your fence can be to your property line or the street. This ensures proper spacing and prevents any encroachments.

• Maintenance Matters: HOAs want to make sure fences are well-maintained and don’t become an eyesore. So, keep that fence looking at its best!  

Navigating the HOA Maze: Don’t worry, you don’t have to decipher those HOA rule books alone! 

Here are some tips:

• Read the Fine Print: Get your hands on your HOA’s covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs). These documents outline all the rules and regulations, including those for fences.
• Ask for Help: If you have questions, reach out to your HOA board or management company. They can clarify any confusing rules and help you understand the approval process.
• Get it in Writing: Once you have a fence plan, submit it to your HOA in writing for approval. This creates a clear record and helps avoid any misunderstandings.

We’re Your HOA Helpers!

At Legacy Fencing, we’re pros at navigating HOA requirements. We’ll help you understand the rules, design a fence that meets those guidelines, and even assist with the approval process. We’re your partners in creating a fence that makes both you AND your HOA happy!

Utility Line Locator 811!!!

We will call 811 before we dig. Its one of our best practices for several crucial reasons:

1. Safety: It’s the safest way to prevent damage to underground utility lines, which can lead to serious injuries, explosions, and even death. Striking a gas line, for example, can have devastating consequences.  
2. Prevents Service Disruptions: Damaging underground lines can disrupt essential services like electricity, gas, water, internet, and phone service for you and your neighbors.  
3. Saves You Money: Repairing damaged utility lines can be extremely costly. You could be held liable for the repairs and any associated costs if you damage a line by digging without calling 811.  
4. It’s the Law: In most states, including Florida, it’s required by law to call 811 before any digging project, no matter how small.  
5. Protects the Environment: Damaging underground lines can lead to environmental contamination, such as gas leaks or oil spills.  
6. Peace of Mind: Knowing that you’ve taken the necessary precautions to dig safely provides peace of mind and helps you avoid potential headaches and dangers.

How 811 Works:

• We will call 811 or submit a request online a few days before you plan to dig.  
• Utility companies are notified of your intent to dig.  
• Professional locators come to your property and mark the approximate location of underground lines with paint or flags.  
• We can then dig safely around the marked areas.  

Why Property Surveys Are Important: Your Fence’s Best Friend!

Okay, so you’re thinking about a new fence – how exciting! But before you get swept away in a world of wood, vinyl, and chain link dreams, there’s one super important step you shouldn’t skip: a property survey. Think of it like a secret decoder ring for your yard, revealing all its hidden treasures (and maybe a few surprises too!).

What’s the Big Deal with Property Surveys?

1. Avoid Neighborly Fence Feuds!

Imagine this: you’ve just built the fence of your dreams, only to discover it’s accidentally hanging out on your neighbor’s property. Awkward! A property survey helps you avoid these “oops” moments by clearly showing where your land ends and your neighbor’s begins. It’s like a peace treaty for your property lines!

1. Permitting Made Easy-Peasy!

Lots of counties want to see a property survey before they give you the thumbs up for your fence project. Having one ready can speed things along and prevent any hold-ups. Plus, it shows you’re a responsible homeowner who’s dotting their i’s and crossing their t’s!

1. Keep Your HOA Happy!

If you’ve got an HOA, they probably have some rules about where your fence can go and what it can look like. A property survey helps you stay on their good side and avoid any fence-related frowns. Happy HOA, happy life, right?

1. Uncover Hidden Treasures (and Maybe a Surprise or Two!)

Sometimes, there are things hiding on your property that you didn’t even know about! A survey can uncover shared areas, like easements, or even a neighbor’s shed that’s accidentally snuck onto your side. It’s like a little adventure in your own backyard!

1. Protect Your Fence Investment!

Think of a property survey as a small investment that can save you big headaches (and maybe even some money!) down the road. It helps you avoid arguments, costly do-overs, and makes sure your fence is built in the right spot from the get-go.

So, What’s the Bottom Line?

A property survey is like a superhero sidekick for your fence project! It brings clarity, prevents disagreements, and helps you breeze through those permits and HOA approvals. It’s all about building your fence with confidence and a happy heart!

Ready to embark on your fence adventure?

By staying informed and obtaining the necessary permits, HOA approval, property survey, and utility line locator you ensure your fence project complies with local regulations, preventing potential issues and ensuring a smooth and successful installation.

We’re here to help you every step of the way, from the initial survey to the final “ta-da!” moment. Contact us today for a free consultation and let’s build something amazing together!