When you are looking to build a precast concrete fence, you might be wondering, “how high should I go?” The answer to that depends somewhat on what purpose the fence will have. If you are looking to block noise from the road or from your neighbors, remember the rule that if you can see the source of the noise, you will be able to hear it too.
American Precast fences can be built anywhere from 1 to 14 feet high. However, there are three other questions you have to answer to find the perfect precast fence height.
What are the local bylaws?
You will need to look up the local bylaws to get a definite answer on how high you can build. To find out exactly what your local bylaws state, you will need to contact the planning and building division of your local municipalities.
Here are some approximate guidelines on maximum fence heights for various locations on your property to get you started. These guidelines are examples of residential neighborhoods. If you have a commercial property, the rules may be different.
- Back of property: 6 – 6.5 feet
- Interior lot line: 6 – 6.5 feet
- Exterior lot line: 3 – 4 feet
- Front of property: 3 – 4 feet
Keep in mind that you can always apply for a variance. If you have a good reason for wanting a taller fence than is allowed in the bylaws, a variance might help you get there.
Where is your house located?
Depending on where your house is located, it might be subjected to additional or different laws. These laws could require your fences to be shorter or allow you to build higher. Check with your local municipality. Here are some of the situations that might change your maximum height:
- Is your house on a corner lot?
When your house is on a corner lot, drivers will need to be able to see around the corner. Most cities will require a maximum height of 3 feet for any fence 18 feet from the corner. Sometimes, they may also limit the rest of the fence along the street to 4 feet high.
- Is your house beside a highway or busy roads?
Because of the extra noise coming from a highway or other busy roads, many municipalities will allow homeowners to build taller fences along those roads to help block the noise.
- Is your house beside a commercial or industrial zone?
Just like with houses near busy roads, houses next to commercial or industrial zones might also be eligible for a taller fence. The idea is to block the noise and the ugly industrial lot from the house. The maximum height may depend on what kind of commercial or industrial business owns the lot next to your house.
What is your budget?
When building a fence of any kind, it’s helpful to go with the fence dimensions that are most common. Typically, fence panels come 4, 5 and 6 feet tall. Panels with different heights than these will need to be custom made. This custom work raises the cost of the fence.
However, with precast concrete, this isn’t as big of an issue. The casting process allows for more custom heights, so you can essentially go up to 14 feet high and not pay a higher rate for custom work. You will just be paying more for the extra materials.
Also, if you are hoping to apply for a variance permit, remember that permit will cost money. The amount will vary, and your municipality can give you exact rates. Once you’re ready, contact America Preacast Inc. for more information about precast fencing and to get a free product estimate.