Fence and boundary disputes often lead to conflicts between neighbors. Anne Arundel County officials and local real estate experts usually highlight these issues. Noncompliance might result in expensive surveys, legal battles, or even forced relocation.

Navigating these zoning rules doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Homeowners benefit from experts on fence installations to follow Pasadena-specific rules, keep the peace with neighbors, and protect their property’s value. Homeowners in Aspen Park and other nearby areas must adhere closely to these rules. A single wrong measurement might lead to tearing down a brand-new fence. Below is your streamlined zoning compliance guide to avoid the hassle and serious compliance risks. 

Step 1: Know the Fence Height Limits

• Front yard fences: Max 4 feet tall and generally must be at least 50% open, like picket or wrought iron. Must be set back 18 inches from the property line.
• Side and rear fences can usually be up to 7 feet high in residential areas. However, this may be limited by subdivision deed covenants.
• Next to commercial or multi-family properties: Up to 9 feet, if allowed by zoning and properly engineered.
• Barbed wire and electrified fences are only allowed in agricultural zoning districts for farming. According to Anne Arundel County Code §18-2-205, they can’t be used in residential yards.
• Corner lots: Sightline rules apply—tall, solid fences cannot block views at intersections to ensure traffic safety.

Scenario: A homeowner on Mountain Estate Dr built a 6-foot privacy fence on the front line. Because it wasn’t 50% open and didn’t meet the setback, the county ordered it modified, resulting in costly corrections.

Solution: Homeowners should install their front fences to a maximum height of 4 feet while checking the property line measurements before starting the fence installation process.

Step 2: Measure Your Setbacks

Setbacks protect sightlines and neighbors’ rights. In Pasadena, MD:

• Front yards: Fence must sit at least 18 inches back from the property line.
• Rear yards along streets: Typically require a 5-foot setback.
• Double frontage lots: Need a 25-foot setback on the rear street side.
• Corner lots: Additional clearance required for visibility and safety.

Scenario: A family in Rambling Ridge installed a rear fence too close to the street, assuming setback rules applied only in front. The violation delayed their property sale until it was corrected.

Solution: Check both front and rear setbacks—especially on lots facing two streets.

Step 3: Secure the Right Permit

Permits ensure your fence project meets Anne Arundel County code.

• What you’ll need: A site plan showing exact location, height, and materials.
• Typical fees: Generally calculated per linear footage; check the county for current rates.
• Processing time: Typically 2–3 weeks, depending on workload and application completeness.
• Inspections: Required to verify compliance after installation.

Scenario: The residents of Mountain Estates Apartments worked with their property managers and county officials to complete their project. The project would have stopped during construction because they lacked both necessary approvals.

Solution: You need to check with your HOA landlord or property manager for signature approval before obtaining county permits.

Step 4: Avoid Common Compliance Pitfalls

Here’s where Anne Arundel County fence projects most often go wrong:

• Building too tall: Ignoring the 4-foot max in front yards.
• Ignoring setbacks: Installing fences directly on or inside easements.
• Using banned materials: Barbed wire and razor wire are prohibited, except for use in approved farming zones.
• Skipping maintenance: Neglected fences can result in county enforcement notices. Using a simple calendar to keep fencing in shape in Pasadena can help homeowners stay on top of necessary upkeep and inspections.

Scenario: A homeowner in Aspen Park added barbed wire to a chain-link fence after a break-in scare. The fix earned them an enforcement notice, and they had to remove it.

Solution: Stick with compliant materials, such as wood, vinyl, aluminum, or wrought iron. Consider security upgrades, such as reinforced gates, instead.

Step 5: Factor in HOA Rules

County codes are the baseline, but Homeowners Associations (HOAs) often go further:

• Height restrictions: Some set limits below county maximums.
• Style and color: Neutral finishes, such as white, beige, or natural wood, are commonly preferred.
• Materials: Chain link is frequently banned in front yards, regardless of county allowances.

Scenario: A homeowner in Mountain Estates built a permitted 6-foot vinyl fence in the rear yard. However, the HOA required modifications because the color didn’t match community standards.

Solution: Review HOA covenants alongside county rules before submitting plans.

Step 6: Use Local Resources

• Anne Arundel County Department of Inspections and Permits: For zoning maps, code sections, and permit applications.
• Experienced installers, like All Around Fence & Decks, know county codes and HOA rules. This means your fence will be built correctly the first time.

FAQs

Keep Your Fence Compliant & Hassle-Free

A compliant fence boosts your property value, prevents disputes, and fits well in the neighborhood. In Aspen Park and Pasadena, Maryland, knowing the rules early saves time and money. It also helps prevent frustration. For fence installations, replacements, or upgrades, talk to experts who know Anne Arundel County’s fencing laws.

All Around Fence & Decks, LLC 8130 Ventnor Road Pasadena, MD 21122 Phone: (443) 838-9374 Website: allaroundfenceanddecks.com