Fence and Retaining Wall Permitting

Information

Please read  Article 305, Fences regarding Fences within the boundaries of the Town of Shady Shores.

Fence Construction Requirements

No fencing is allowed within easements or right of ways. (3.05.007)

Specific approved fencing materials may be allowed within drainage easements

Fences must be setback at least 10’ from the edge of the right-of-way pavement or 5’ from sidewalks, whichever is greater. 

The measurement associated with the sidewalk must be taken from the edge of the sidewalk that is closest to the property line. 

A vision clearance area meeting the standards contained in the transportation criteria manual must be provided at all intersections. 

Call Texas One Call system for line location before starting construction. 811

Inspections

Plan Review

Final Inspection 

Replacement Fence Construction Requirements-25% or more replacement

Fencing previously permitted in existing easements can be replaced and installed in the original location within the easement(s) when photo documentation is submitted with the application. 

When replacing an existing fence in an easement, the property owner assumes the liability for any damages that could occur if access is needed to the easement.  

Call Texas One Call system for line location before starting construction. 811

Schedule Final Inspection when complete. 

Inspections

Plan Review

Final Inspection 

Pool Fence Requirements - Usually included with pool construction

Before placing fences within easements or right of ways, read 3.05.007. 

Fencing must be a minimum height of 60” and cannot have gaps large enough for a sphere four inches in diameter to pass through.  

All personal gates must open outward and be self-closing/self-latching and all latches must be a minimum of 54” above exterior grade for non-pool side and a minimum 40” on pool side. 

Fences must be constructed so they do not allow for climbing. 

All fences shall be installed with the structural framing located on the interior of the subject lot/property. 

Call Texas One Call system for line location before starting construction. 811

Call for Final Inspection when complete. 

Inspections 

Plan Review Inspection 

Final Inspection 

Replacing Pool Fence Construction Requirements

Fencing previously permitted in existing easements can be replaced and installed in the original location within the easement(s) when photo documentation is submitted with the application. 

When replacing an existing fence in an easement the property owner assumes the liability for any damages that could occur if access is needed to the easement. 

Fencing must be a minimum height of 60” and cannot have gaps large enough for a sphere four inches in diameter to pass through.  

All personal gates must open outward and be self-closing/self-latching and all latches must be a minimum of 54” above exterior grade for non-pool side and a minimum 40” on poolside. 

Fences must be constructed so they do not allow for climbing. 

All fences must be installed with the structural framing located on the interior of the subject lot/property. 

Call Texas One Call system for line location before starting construction. 811

Call for Final Inspection when complete. 

Inspections

Plan Review

Final Inspection 


Submission Requirements

Fence permits must be accompanied by a site plan featuring all structures, property lines, the location of the fence, and easements if known. Draw to scale. 

Detail must be given on the application as to the type of construction being used.

The homeowner will need to certify that the proposed fence is not located in a drainage area. Fences that are being proposed in a drainage easement must meet the requirements of ordinance 222-2-2010.

HOA approval must be submitted with the permit request, if applicable

Cost

The current Fee Schedule will determine the cost of the fence permit. 

Citizen Portal

Retaining Walls

Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet in height (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall) typically do not require a permit. If the retaining wall is designed to support a surcharge, a permit is required.

Retaining Wall Construction Requirements

Wall cannot encroach any easements, or other properties not owned by the same owner. 

Sections of the wall that exceed 30” in height must be provided with a guard not less than 42” in height. 

Retaining wall exceeding 4’ from the top of the retaining wall to the bottom of the footing or supports a surcharge shall be engineered designed plans. 

Town Engineer inspection required for retaining walls exceeding 4"

 Call Texas One Call system for line location before starting construction. 811

 Call for Final Inspection when complete. 

Submittal Requirements for retaining walls over 4' or those retaining walls designed to support a surcharge.

Site plan featuring all structures, property lines, location of the fence, and easements if known. 

  • Site Plan drawn to scale.
  •  Retaining Walls: Drainage arrows indicating the flow of water should be indicated on the site plan 
  •  Retaining Walls: Engineered specifications 
  • Fence Permit Application

Plan Submittal

Plans may be submitted online 

Inspections Required

See the Fence Submittal Requirements for a detailed list of inspections by type of fence. 

  • Engineering Review
  • Form surveys
  • Engineered inspections report(s) as determined by the Town Engineer

Fees

See Fee Schedule for more information