Fence rules & permits in Upper Gwynedd Township, PA
What you need to know before building a residential fence in Upper Gwynedd — permits, setbacks, key rules, and how to apply. Reviewed 2026-07-20; every rule links to its official source.
Quick answer
Yes — you need a permit. Upper Gwynedd Township requires a permit for fences, applied for via the Consolidated Construction Permit Application, with plot plans showing the proposed fence and existing property features including easements.
Key rules for residential fences
Maximum height
No fence or wall may be erected along or within any required yard that exceeds 6 feet 6 inches in height in residential (non-industrial) districts, unless a special exception is granted by the Zoning Hearing Board. (Industrial districts allow up to 8 feet.)
Source: Upper Gwynedd Township Code — Zoning, Regulations Applicable in All Districts (eCode360)
Plot plans required
Permit applications must include two (2) sets of drawings/specifications and two (2) plot plans showing the location and dimensions of the proposed fence and all existing property features, including easements.
How to apply
- Download the Consolidated Construction Permit Application from the Township website.
- Prepare two plot plans showing property lines, the house, easements, and the proposed fence location with dimensions, plus two sets of fence specifications (height, material).
- Submit the application to Code Enforcement / Building & Zoning at 1 Parkside Place, North Wales.
- Wait for the permit to be issued before starting work.
- Call PA One Call (811) at least 3 business days before digging post holes.
Forms & official pages
Fees
Permit fee amounts were not confirmed during the last review. Confirm the current fee with Code Enforcement (215-699-7777).
Applies everywhere in Pennsylvania
Call 811 before you dig
Pennsylvania law requires calling PA One Call (dial 811 or visit pa1call.org) at least 3 business days before any digging — including fence post holes — so underground utilities can be marked for free.
Pool fences
Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code (UCC) adopts the International Residential Code, which requires a barrier around swimming pools capable of holding more than 24 inches of water. If your fence will serve as a pool barrier, these state-level rules apply in addition to local zoning. Exact numbers depend on the code edition your municipality enforces. Confirm current pool barrier requirements with your township when applying — a pool fence usually gets extra review.
Property lines
You are responsible for building on your own property. If you are not certain where your property line is, find your official plot plan (often included with closing documents), check the county GIS map, or hire a surveyor. Building over the line can mean rebuilding the fence at your own cost.
Easements
Drainage, utility, and access easements commonly cross residential lots. Most townships restrict or prohibit fences in easements, and a utility can remove a fence built in one. Your deed and recorded plot plan show easements.
HOA rules
If your home is in a homeowners association, HOA rules apply on top of township rules and are often stricter (style, color, height, approval process). Get HOA approval in writing before applying for the township permit.
Corner lots and sight triangles
Corner lots usually face extra restrictions near intersections so drivers can see cross traffic ('clear sight triangles'). If you are on a corner, ask the township specifically about street-side fence rules.
Still to confirm with the township
These questions weren't answered by official sources at our last review — ask when you call or email:
- Current permit fee for residential fences.
- Front-yard fence restrictions and corner-lot sight-triangle rules.
- Whether a finished-side-out requirement applies.
Contact
Code Enforcement / Building & Zoning
1 Parkside Place, North Wales, PA 19454
Phone: 215-699-7777
Department website
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to install a fence in Upper Gwynedd Township?
Yes. Fences require a permit through the Township's Consolidated Construction Permit Application, submitted with plot plans showing the fence location and existing features including easements.
How tall can a residential fence be in Upper Gwynedd Township?
Up to 6 feet 6 inches within required yards in residential districts. Anything taller requires a special exception from the Zoning Hearing Board.
What do I need to submit with a fence permit application in Upper Gwynedd?
Two sets of drawings/specifications and two plot plans showing the location and dimensions of the proposed fence and all existing property features, including easements.
Who handles fence permits in Upper Gwynedd Township?
Code Enforcement / Building & Zoning at 1 Parkside Place, North Wales, PA 19454 — phone 215-699-7777.
Turn this into a personalized plan
Answer a few questions about your fence and get a free planning packet for Upper Gwynedd: permit steps, material quantities, cost ranges, and an action checklist — DIY or contractor.
Sources
- Upper Gwynedd Township — Permits & Ordinances
- Upper Gwynedd Township — Consolidated Construction Permit Application
- Upper Gwynedd Township Code — Zoning, Regulations Applicable in All Districts (eCode360)
- Upper Gwynedd Township — Code Enforcement/Building & Zoning
Last reviewed 2026-07-20. This guide summarizes official sources for planning purposes only and may not reflect amendments made after that date. Always confirm with Upper Gwynedd Township before building.