If you’re planning a fence installation in Boca Raton, one of the first questions that comes up is whether you need a permit or a survey. Let’s walk through the rules—in plain English—so you avoid surprises and costly re-dos.
Should I Get a Property Survey?
Before you build, it’s highly recommended you have a property survey. This shows exactly where your land ends and your neighbor’s (or the city’s) begins.
Imagine finally wrapping up your fence installation and later finding out it’s 6 inches onto city property, your neighbor’s property, or over a utility line. That can lead to costly removal and legal headaches.
City code requires a survey for every fence. If your survey is 5 years or older, a Survey Affidavit is required for the owner to confirm there have been no additions or changes to the property from the date on the survey.
A property survey will help to:
- Make sure your fence is in the right place
- Avoid conflicts with neighbors
- Pass the permitting process smoothly
Can I Build a Fence on a Public Easement or Alley?
Not without written permission.
A public easement is a slice of land (usually along your backyard or side yard) that utility companies or the city use for things like:
- Power lines
- Water pipes
- Drainage
- Sidewalk access
Boca Raton says you can’t put a fence in an easement, public street, or alley unless:
- You get written approval from the city manager or designee
- You get approval from any public utility that controls the easement (there are currently 5 utility companies requiring written approval from both the property owner and utility company)
Even if you’re approved, the city can later revoke that permission at any time and require you to remove it—at your own cost.
Think of it like parking your car in a friend’s driveway. It’s fine until they need to use it.
What If the Fence Is in an Unused Alley?
If there’s an undeveloped alley or easement behind your property that’s not being used and probably never will be, you may be allowed to put a fence there. But again—only if:
- You get written approval from the city
- The fence doesn’t block off the full width of the alley (you can only use half the width)
- You get a permit
- You agree to remove the fence later if the city needs access
Visibility and Safety Hazards
The city can force you to remove or shorten your fence if they decide it’s blocking visibility or creating a hazard for drivers, bikers, or pedestrians.
If that happens, you’ll get a written notice and have 30 days to fix the problem—or the city can remove the fence and charge you for it.
If the fence is a serious safety issue, they can remove it immediately without notice.
Do I Need a Permit for My Fence?
Short answer: Yes, in most cases, you’ll need a building permit from the City of Boca Raton, even if you’re replacing an existing fence.
Why? To ensure your fence won’t:
- Block traffic views
- Cross into public property
- Violate pool code (for safety)
- Interfere with underground utilities
- Break other city rules
Bottom Line for Homeowners
Before installing a fence in Boca Raton:
- Get a property survey (even if not legally required)
- Apply for a building permit
- Avoid building in public easements unless approved in writing
- Leave enough space between your fence and sidewalks or roads for safety
- Install the “finished side” facing out toward the street or neighbors
Need Help With Permits or Surveys?
At Top Rail Fence West Palm Beach, we handle this process every day. We can help:
- Locate your property lines
- Navigate city approvals
- Pull the necessary permits
- Build a code-compliant fence you’ll love
Call us at (561) 847-3444 or email westpalmbeach@toprailfence.com to schedule a free consultation.
Based on City of Boca Raton Code of Ordinances Sec. 28-1356. Always consult the city for the most up-to-date rules.
