Introduction
You must have picked out the perfect cedar privacy fence. You are planning the installation process. But wait, have you visited the Planning & Zoning office at Town Hall yet? The most common mistake homeowners make is believing they can just ‘put up a fence.’
The reality is that the state has a specific “two-step” approval process that can ruin your plans. Ignoring this can lead to “Stop Work” orders or, worse, having to tear down your new investment. The TG’s Landscaping team handles the whole permit process for you. We ensure that your new fence is legal and safe.
The “Two-Step” Approval Process
Authorities don’t see fencing the way you might. The town has to preserve safety, visibility, and property lines. It explains why permits are a strict requirement.
Step 1: The Certificate of Zoning Compliance (The Critical First Step)
This step comes first, and you cannot skip it. The Certificate of Zoning Compliance shows that your fence is in line with local zoning regulations. The Zoning Enforcement Officer examines the fence to determine if the location, height, and placement meet the standards set forth. They also assess how close it is to the road, sidewalks, and adjacent properties.
If zoning says no to the fence, so will the building department. This rule surprises many homeowners. They lose time and money by beginning in the wrong place.
Rest assured, TG’s Landscaping can submit this application on your behalf. We submit a plot plan with the following items:
- Fence line drawn clearly.
- Yard boundaries confirmed with your property before submission.
This step in our process is to protect you from costly mistakes.
Step 2: The Building Permit (Safety & Structure)
This permit focuses on structure and safety. The Building Official reviews materials, post depth, and construction standards. This permit makes sure your fence stays strong and safe. It also confirms that your fence is built to town codes. Once approved, you can start your build on the right foot.
Local Regulation Alert: Zoning Comes First
Many homeowners rush to the Building Department first, thinking that is where the process starts. Stop! You actually need a Certificate of Zoning Compliance before the Building Official will even look at your application. The Zoning Enforcement Officer needs to verify that your fence isn’t too tall for the front yard or blocking a neighbor’s view on a corner. We handle all aspects, such as submitting the required plot plan with your fence line drawn in red. It certifies that your location is approved before we dig the posts.
Fence Height and Location Rules
Fencing regulations are dependent on where your fence stands on your property. The town has divided fencing for all properties into front, side, and back yards. Each of these sections has different regulations.
Front Yard Restrictions: The “4-foot Rule.”
The front yard is subject to stricter regulations than all others. With few exceptions, any fence built between the front side of the building and the street cannot be more than 4 feet tall. This regulation is strictly enforced and plays a role in yard safety.
Many homeowners don’t realize what constitutes a front yard. We review your layout carefully. We describe where the front yard starts and stops. It is to cut down the chances of denial or outright refusal.
Privacy in the Side and Rear Yards (The 6-Foot Standard)
Side and rear yards need more privacy. In general, fences in these areas shouldn’t surpass 6 feet in height. It’s a good height for privacy and security. The fence, however, must remain within property lines and follow setback rules.
We double-check our measurements and limits. And yes, we verify that the posts stay within your lot. This step prevents any problems with neighbors and town officials.
Corner Lot “Visibility Triangles”
Corner lots follow extra rules. The town preserves sight lines at the corners. These areas form “visibility triangles.” Fences inside a triangle must be low.
It is for the safety of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Many permits for corner-lot fences are denied. Before we approve these triangles, we move placement as needed to comply with town safety rules.
What You Need for the Fence Application (And How We Help)
Fence permits require specific documents. Missing items delay approval. Incorrect drawings cause rejection. Our team takes care of everything, so you don’t have to guess.
The A-2 Survey / Plot Plan Requirement
You need a plot plan or an A-2 Survey. This document shows:
- Property boundaries
- House location
- Driveways and sidewalks
- Proposed fence line
The fence line should be easy to see, typically red. The town carefully checks this drawing when reviewing zoning compliance. We’ll help you find answers if you don’t have a recent survey. We walk you through what’s allowed, according to the town regulations.
Marking the Property Lines (Don’t Estimate!)
Never guess property lines. Guess wrong, and you will face disputes, fines, and removal orders. The town expects accurate placement. Fences may bring objections from neighbors if they cross property boundaries.
We confirm through surveys and site visits. We set stakes accurately before the installation process. It’s to save your investment and relationships.
Standard Permit Pitfalls to Avoid
Many fence jobs go off the rails because of seemingly small things. If a project stops, it’s often the small things that people neglect.
Good Neighbor Fences
Trumbull abides by the “good neighbor” system. The smooth side of the fence should face outside. If it’s not reversible, the structural side should face your property. It’s a rule of fairness and appearance. We do fences right the first time. This care prevents complaints and code violations.
Fences in Conservation Easements
Some properties include conservation easements. These are regions that protect wetlands, open space, or natural land. Fences within these areas may require special approval or are totally prohibited.
So we look at property records before planning. If an easement does exist, we present options clearly. This step keeps you out of trouble legally and from wasting supplies.
Why Choose a Licensed Trumbull Contractor?
Local experience matters in Trumbull because the town rules change and enforcement varies. Paperwork must match local regulations precisely. A legitimate contractor knows all of these specifics.
At TG’s Landscaping, it’s not uncommon for us to deal with the Planning & Zoning office as well as the Building Department. We know what they expect. We submit clean applications and respond fast to feedback. This experience keeps your project running.
Unlicensed installers or out-of-town contractors do not always bother to get the permits. This shortcut is also a road to stop-work orders and fines. It also endangers the homeowner. We are guarding you by accomplishing it right the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put up a small fence without a permit?
No. Even the smallest fences tend to require permits from authorities. Ignoring permits can cause stop-work orders or forced removal.
What is the height limitation for my fence in CT?
Front yard fences are limited to 4 feet. Side and rear-yard fences can usually be up to 6 feet if they are appropriately set back.
What happens if my fence is over the property line?
It can cause fines and removal orders. That is why surveys and measurements are essential before installation.
