Fence and Retaining Wall Permit in Phoenix, Arizona
Requirements for fences and walls in Phoenix are found in the Phoenix Building Construction Code and the Zoning Ordinance. A fence or wall is one of the common residential projects that requires a permit. Apply using the Fence Application (or the Retaining Wall Application for retaining walls). Permit fees follow the valuation-based Table A, with a $98 minimum for residential fences.
Verified 2026-06-29 · Source
When you need this permit
- Fence and wall requirements are set by the Phoenix Building Construction Code and the Zoning Ordinance
- Apply using the Fence Application (TRT/DOC/00349); retaining walls use the Retaining Wall Application (TRT/DOC/00355)
- Fences/walls are among the residential projects that require a construction permit (per the Residential Single Family Construction Permit Guide)
Required documents
- Req
Fence Application (TRT/DOC/00349)
Residential fence permit application; available on the PDD Residential Applications & Checklists page
- Opt
Retaining Wall Application (TRT/DOC/00355)
Retaining wall permit application; available on the PDD Residential Applications & Checklists page
Fee schedule
| Fee type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fence / wall permit — valuation-based (Table A) | $1–$1,000: $98 minimum for residential fences (otherwise $195 base fee); $1,001–$10,000: $195 on first $1,000 plus $12 per additional $1,000 | PDD Fee Schedule, Table A (Ordinance G-7465, effective 1/20/2026). The $98 minimum is the verbatim Table A minimum for residential water heaters and fences. |
Review timeline
~1–10 business days
Typical estimate — confirm current times with the Phoenix building department
Inspection process
- 1
Footing (if required)
Footing inspection before concrete pour for masonry fences/walls and retaining walls requiring a structural footing
- 2
Final
Final inspection of the completed fence or wall per approved plans
Tips
- Fence and wall requirements come from BOTH the Phoenix Building Construction Code and the Zoning Ordinance — check height and setback rules in zoning before building.
- Residential fence permits have a $98 minimum permit fee under Table A.
- Retaining walls use a separate application (Retaining Wall Application, TRT 00355).
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a permit to build a fence in Phoenix?
- Yes — a fence or wall is one of the common residential projects that requires a permit in Phoenix. Requirements come from the Phoenix Building Construction Code and the Zoning Ordinance. Apply using the Fence Application (TRT 00349); the permit fee has a $98 minimum under Table A. Source: City of Phoenix Residential Fences and Walls page and PDD Fee Schedule.
Sources & verification
Verified against official sources. Last reviewed 2026-06-29.
- City of Phoenix Planning & Development Department — official building department
- Residential Fences and Walls | City of Phoenix PDD
- Fence Application (TRT 00349) — PDF
- PDD Fee Schedule (Ordinance G-7465, effective 1/20/2026) — PDF
Fees, timelines, and adopted codes are researched from each jurisdiction's published records — see how we verify. Requirements change and vary by project, so always confirm the current details with the Phoenix building department before you submit. PermitBase is an independent reference and is not affiliated with any government agency.
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