Permit guidance · Last reviewed 2026-08-28
Fence Permits in Miami
A permit is often required, depending on the exact scope. Confirm with the department. This is educational information, not a legal determination and not a substitute for the building department.
City of Miami vs unincorporated Miami-Dade
City of Miami
Fences, walls, and gates are on the City of Miami Homeowner's Express list. Fences over six feet may need structural review and may not qualify for walk-thru express.
Miami-Dade County (unincorporated)
Unincorporated properties use County zoning and building rules for height, materials, and corner visibility. Municipalities differ. Waterfront and historic lots have extra rules.
Other municipalities (Coral Gables, Miami Beach, Hialeah, and the rest) have their own building departments. Always start with the jurisdiction of the property address.
Typical steps
- Know the property lines before you build.
- Ask about height limits and whether the fence is over six feet.
- Historic districts often cannot use expedited paths.
Exemptions (high level)
Some repairs of existing fences may be treated differently from new installation. Ask the department.
Fees
Fence permit fees are published in local schedules. Confirm before you treat a blog number as current.
Official resources
Sources & verification
Factual and regulatory statements on this page are based on official government and licensing authorities. Requirements change — always confirm current details at the source.
- Miami-Dade County — Contractor licensing and permitting (RER / Building)Miami-Dade County contractor licensing and building permit requirements.Source checked 2026-08-28
- City of Miami Building Department — Permits, construction, and residential permit guideCity of Miami building permits, iBuild, express review, and roofing/window/solar catalog items. Confirm current checklists on the City site.Source checked 2026-08-28
Questions
Can you tell me if I need a permit?
Only the building department with jurisdiction over the address can. This page summarizes published City of Miami and Miami-Dade guidance and links to those sources.
Who should pull the permit?
For licensed contracting work, the contractor typically pulls it under their license. Being asked to pull it yourself as an owner-builder shifts responsibility to you.