Georgia county
Fence Rules in DeKalb County, Georgia
Which fence rules apply in DeKalb County depends on where your property sits: each city sets its own ordinance, unincorporated areas follow county code, and historic districts can add stricter requirements. The fastest way to be sure is to look up your exact address.
Unincorporated DeKalb County at a glance
In Unincorporated DeKalb County, fence height limits are: front yards, 4 ft max, measured from finished or street grade; Same cap on the street side of a corner lot; Most side and back yards: 8 ft max, and the same along a subdivision perimeter; Where that perimeter fence runs along a public street: 6 ft max, with a 15 ft wide planted buffer.
Not required for a fence 8 ft or shorter, which covers every fence a house lot is allowed by right; Over 8 ft: a permit is required. On a house lot, that height also takes a Zoning Board of Appeals variance; Exemption: DeKalb County Code Sec. 7-30; Planning and Sustainability, 178 Sams St, Decatur, 404-371-2155 (option 3).
On corner lots in Unincorporated DeKalb County: No fixed corner triangle. The county uses highway sight-distance standards: nothing between 30 in and 8 ft above a local street or driveway, or between 30 in and 12 ft above a larger (collector or higher) street; Separately, the street side of a corner lot is capped at 4 ft.
These county rules apply outside city limits. Inside a city, that city's ordinance applies. Choose your city below. Last verified August 29, 2026.
Cities & Towns
Inside city limits, the city's fence ordinance applies.
Unincorporated Areas
Outside any city limits, the county's rules apply.
Historic Districts & Overlays
These areas have additional requirements on top of citywide rules.
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