Do You Need a Permit to Build a Fence in New Britain?

Before you put up a fence, there is one step people often forget: the permit. Most Connecticut towns, including those around New Britain, require a permit for a new fence. Skipping it can mean a fine or even an order to take the fence down. Here is what you need to know before you start digging.

Why towns require a fence permit

A permit lets the town check a few things before you build:

Height limits. Most towns set a maximum height for fences. The limit is usually different for the front yard and the back yard. In many Connecticut towns, back yard fences can go up to six feet and front yard fences are capped at four feet. The permit process makes sure your plan fits within those limits.

Property lines. Your fence needs to sit on your property, not your neighbor's. The town wants to make sure you know where your property line is before you start. Putting a fence even a few inches onto the neighbor's land can lead to a dispute, a legal fight, or an order to move the fence.

Sight lines. If your property is near a corner or intersection, the town may have rules about how tall a fence can be near the road. This is a safety issue. A tall fence on a corner can block a driver's view and cause accidents.

Setbacks. Some towns require a setback, meaning the fence has to be a certain distance from the property line, the sidewalk, or the road. The permit application is where you find out if a setback applies to your lot.

How the permit process works

The process is simple. Here is what it usually looks like:

Step 1: Get a plot plan. You need a drawing that shows your property boundaries and where the fence will go. If you do not have a recent survey, you may need one. Some towns accept a basic sketch with measurements, while others want a professional survey.

Step 2: Fill out the application. The town's building department has a permit application. You fill it out with details about the fence: the material, the height, the length, and the location on your property.

Step 3: Pay the fee. Permit fees are usually small. Most towns in the New Britain area charge between $25 and $75.

Step 4: Wait for approval. The town reviews your plan and either approves it or asks for changes. This usually takes a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on the town.

Step 5: Build. Once you have the permit, you can start. Some towns also require an inspection after the fence is up to make sure it matches the approved plan.

What happens if you skip the permit

Building without a permit is a gamble that rarely pays off. Here is what can happen:

Fines. The town can issue a fine for building without a permit. The amount varies, but it is always more than the permit would have cost.

Stop work orders. If a building inspector sees a fence going up without a permit, they can order you to stop right in the middle of the job. You then have to apply for the permit and wait for approval before you finish.

Tear-down orders. In the worst case, the town can order you to take the fence down. This happens most often when the fence violates a height limit, a setback, or a property line rule. You lose the cost of the fence and the labor.

Problems when you sell. When you sell your home, the buyer's inspector or attorney may find unpermitted work. This can delay the sale, lower the price, or kill the deal.

Do all fence types need a permit?

In most Connecticut towns, yes. Wood, vinyl, chain link, aluminum, pool fences, and even short decorative fences usually need a permit. The rules can differ by town, so it is always worth calling the building department to ask.

Pool fences have extra rules. Connecticut requires a fence around any pool that is 24 inches deep or more. The fence must be at least 48 inches tall and have a self-closing, self-latching gate. These rules are strict because they protect children.

Tips for a smooth permit process

Call the building department first. Every town has slightly different rules. A quick phone call can save you time and surprises.

Know your property lines. If you are not sure where your line is, get a survey before you apply. It costs a little up front but saves a lot of trouble later.

Talk to your neighbors. This is not a legal requirement, but it is a good idea. Let your neighbors know you plan to build and where the fence will go. A quick conversation now can prevent a dispute later.

Work with a fence company that handles permits. We take care of the permit process for our customers. We know the rules in each town, and we make sure everything is done right before the first post goes in.

We handle the permit for you

At A&L Fence, we take care of the entire process. We check your property lines, prepare the permit application, and make sure your fence meets every code requirement. You do not have to deal with town hall or worry about getting it wrong.

Call us at (207) 227-5825 or request a free estimate to get started. We serve New Britain and all the surrounding towns in central Connecticut.

Related service: Wood Fence Installation