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King and Queen County Height Limits Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know

Some Restrictions
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas of King and Queen County. Cities within the county may have their own rules that supersede county-level regulations.

Key Facts

Front Yard Maximum
Typically 3–4 feet
Side Yard Maximum
Typically 6 feet
Rear Yard Maximum
Typically 6–8 feet
Corner Lot Visibility
Sight triangle restrictions often apply

The Short Version

Fence height regulations in King and Queen County typically allow fences up to 6 feet in rear and side yards and 3–4 feet in front yards. Heights may vary depending on the zoning district, and corner lot properties often have additional sight-line requirements. For the most current regulations, check with your local King and Queen County government office.

Full Breakdown

Fence height limits in King and Queen County are designed to balance property owners' privacy and security needs with neighborhood aesthetics and public safety. Front yard fences are typically limited to 3–4 feet to maintain sight lines for drivers and pedestrians and to preserve an open neighborhood character. Side and rear yard fences may be up to 6 feet tall, with some counties allowing up to 8 feet in specific zones or with a permit. Corner lots often face additional restrictions within a sight triangle near the intersection to ensure drivers can see oncoming traffic. Decorative elements such as lattice or finials that extend above the fence line may or may not count toward the height limit depending on the county's specific code.

What Happens If You Violate This?

Fences exceeding height limits in King and Queen County may be subject to a notice of violation requiring the fence to be modified or reduced to the allowed height within 30 days. Failure to comply may result in daily fines of $50 to $200 and potential county-ordered removal at the owner's expense. If a fence blocks required sight lines at intersections, more urgent corrective action may be required.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall can my fence be in King and Queen County?
Front yard fences are typically limited to 3–4 feet, while side and rear yard fences can usually be up to 6 feet. Some areas allow up to 8 feet with a permit. Verify with the county building department.
Do decorative toppers count toward fence height?
It depends on the county code. Some counties exclude open lattice or decorative elements from the height calculation, while others include everything above the ground line.
Are there different rules for corner lots?
Yes, corner lots typically have sight triangle requirements near intersections that may limit fence height to 3 feet or less within a certain area to maintain visibility for drivers.

How does King and Queen County compare?

See how King and Queen County's height limits rules stack up against other locations.