Generally, if the fence is on the property line, it can be up to six (6) feet tall without need for a permit. There are instances where you can build fences up to eight (8) feet tall without permit or the need for a zoning variance, but these vary from city to city. If the fence is within the property's building zone, the fence can be as high as you like, but will still generally require a building permit. There are also height variances depending on whether the fence is solid (privacy fence) or primarily open (ornamental, wire mesh, or chain-link.) A primarily open fence does not have height restrictions in most cities. For fences in front yards, the maximum height is generally going to be 3 feet.
