Fence rules in Nashville, TN: height limits and permits

Tennessee · Last checked November 2026

Key facts

Solid fence near the street

Over 30 inches must be 10 feet from the right-of-way.

Rest of the front yard

Up to 6 feet (72 inches).

Open fences

Up to 6 feet, even within the 10-foot strip.

Corner lots

No fences in the 35-foot visibility zone (Urban Zoning Overlay lots excepted).

How it works

Cities limit fence height by where the fence sits: front yards are usually held to 3 or 4 feet so drivers can see, while side and rear yards commonly allow 6 to 8 feet. Corner lots add a sight triangle where almost nothing can be tall. Some cities want a permit for every fence, others only above a height.

1. Find your property lines with a survey or plat before setting posts.
2. Check the front yard, side and rear yard limits, and whether you are on a corner lot.
3. Ask whether a permit or zoning review is needed, and for which heights or materials.
4. Check HOA rules too. They can be stricter than the city, never looser.
5. Call 811 to mark utilities before digging.

What it costs

Permit fees are usually small, from nothing to under $100. The fence itself is the real cost and depends on length, height and material.

Compare other cities

• Fruit Heights Permit required
• South Jordan Height and placement limits
• Washington County Height and placement limits
• New York City Permit only over a set height
• Charlotte Permit only over a set height
• Minneapolis Height and placement limits