Permit guide

Do I need a permit for a fence in Fort Lauderdale?

Updated October 2026

Yes. The City of Fort Lauderdale lists a building permit for fences, walls and gates, with an electrical permit added if the fence has electrical parts. Expect a signed and sealed survey, and for PVC or metal fences, plans signed and sealed by a Florida-licensed architect or engineer.

What does the city review?

According to the Development Services Department's fence checklist, a fence application can pass through building, zoning, electrical (if needed), engineering (if the fence is in an easement) and landscaping review. Landscaping review does not apply in the Riverland Road or Broward County annexed areas.

What do I submit?

• Survey. A signed and sealed survey with a raised seal, plus a zoning affidavit stating nothing has changed since the survey date.
• Site plan. Showing the fence and setbacks to every property line, unless the survey already shows them.
• Engineered plans for PVC and metal fences, signed and sealed by a Florida-licensed architect or engineer.
• Chain link fence table, completed, for chain link fences.
• Product approvals where required. The checklist warns that premanufactured sections may not comply and may need product approval.
• Temporary structure affidavit, notarized and recorded with Broward County, if the fence sits in an easement.

Can a wood fence skip the engineer?

Often, yes. Wood and chain link fences that are not designed by an architect or engineer must follow the Florida Building Code's prescriptive method. For wood, the checklist describes fences up to six feet with pressure-treated 4x4 posts set 2 feet deep in 10-inch concrete footings and at least three 2x4 rails. Taller or different designs need a design professional.

What happens after the permit is issued?

• A Notice of Commencement is recorded and posted on site before the first inspection, under Chapter 713, Florida Statutes.
• Sunshine 811 is notified at least two full business days before digging, so buried lines can be marked.
• A final inspection is done after the fence is complete.

Is the answer different in some cases?

It depends on the fence and the lot. A fence facing the street must be set back and landscaped. A fence in an easement needs engineering review and a recorded affidavit. A pool barrier must also meet Florida's pool safety rules; see the pool fence guide. An HOA may require its own approval before the city permit.

What about other Broward cities?

Hollywood, Plantation, Davie and Pompano Beach each run their own building departments with their own checklists. We confirm requirements for your address as part of every quote.