From Permits to Posts: Your Complete Guide to Building a Fence in Lakewood

Building a fence in Lakewood, CO, involves more than choosing a design—it requires navigating zoning regulations, permit processes, HOA guidelines, and site-specific conditions. Whether you’re installing a privacy fence, enhancing your front yard, or securing a pool, this guide walks you through every step to ensure your fence is compliant, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. Let Denco Fence handle the details, so you can enjoy a hassle-free experience.

🏡 Do You Need a Fence Permit in Lakewood?

Yes—in Lakewood, most fences require a building permit, particularly if they exceed specific height limits, are located in certain areas, or involve structural elements like retaining walls. Permits ensure compliance with zoning codes, safety regulations, and neighborhood aesthetics, protecting both you and your community.

✅ When You Don’t Need a Permit

You may not need a permit if your fence meets these criteria:

Front yard: 4 feet or less in height
Back or side yard: 6 feet or less
Not located on a corner lot or within a historic district
Doesn’t require a retaining wall or special footing

❌ When You Do Need a Permit

You’ll need a permit if:

The fence exceeds 4 feet in the front yard or 6 feet in side/back yards
It’s located in a special zoning area, historic district, or near a landmark
It involves digging for posts or structural supports
It’s within the visibility triangle of a driveway or intersection
It’s on a corner lot with setback requirements
It includes a retaining wall or other structural elements

Pro Tip: Even if a permit isn’t required, your fence must comply with Lakewood’s zoning and land-use codes. When in doubt, check with the City of Lakewood’s Planning and Zoning Division or consult Denco Fence for expert guidance.

⌛ How Long Does It Take to Get a Permit?

Fence permits in Lakewood are typically processed within 5–10 business days, depending on the complexity of the project. Applications in historic districts or those requiring variances may take 2–4 weeks due to additional reviews. Plan ahead to avoid delays.

⚠️ What Happens If You Skip the Permit?

Building a non-compliant fence can result in:

Fines or code violation notices
Mandatory fence removal or modification
Complications during property sales or inspections

📏 Fence Height & Placement Rules

Lakewood enforces specific height and placement regulations based on your property’s zoning and the fence’s location.

🧱 Height Limits by Location

Fence Location — Max Height (No Permit)

Front Yard — 4 feet
Back Yard — 6 feet
Side Yard — 6 feet
Corner Lot — 4 feet (visibility triangle rules apply)

🔀 Shared Property Lines

You may build directly on a shared property line with your neighbor’s written consent. Without agreement, a setback (typically 1–2 feet) may be required to avoid disputes.

🚧 Special Considerations

Retaining Walls: Fences on top of retaining walls count toward the total height limit and may require engineering review.
Driveways/Corners: Fences must comply with visibility triangle rules to ensure safety at intersections.
Alleys: Fences near alleys must maintain clearance for access and comply with material restrictions.
Utilities: Avoid building over utility easements or sewer access points to prevent future issues.

📓 How to Apply for a Fence Permit in Lakewood

Applying for a fence permit in Lakewood is straightforward if you’re prepared. The city uses an online permitting system for efficiency.

📝 Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1. Create a Site Plan
Draw a clear layout of your property, showing the fence’s location, height, materials, and proximity to streets, sidewalks, and property lines.

Step 2. Call 811 Before You Dig
Contact 811 to mark underground utilities before digging posts to avoid safety hazards.

Step 3. Submit Application Online
Visit Lakewood’s Online Permitting Portal and apply under “Residential > Fence.”

Step 4. Upload Documentation
Include your site plan, project description, and, if applicable, a Homeowner Affidavit for DIY projects.

Step 5. Pay the Permit Fee
The permit fee includes an $80.00 flat fee for a fence permit. Estimated use tax will be collected in addition to the permit fee and is calculated at 3% of 50% of the total project valuation.

Step 6. Wait for Approval
Standard permits are approved in 5–10 business days. Complex designs or variance requests may take longer.

Step 7. Schedule Inspections (if required)
Fences involving retaining walls or deep footings may need post-hole or final inspections, booked through the permitting portal.

🔍 Zoning & Land Use Considerations

Lakewood’s zoning laws dictate fence placement, height, and materials to maintain neighborhood consistency and safety.

🏘 Residential Zones (R-1, R-2, etc.)

Most residential properties in Lakewood fall under R-1 or R-2 zoning, allowing 4-foot front yard fences and 6-foot side/back yard fences. Check your property’s zoning on Lakewood’s Zoning Map.

📜 Historic Districts & Special Areas

If your property is in a historic district (e.g., near the Lakewood/Dry Gulch area) or a conservation zone, additional approvals from the Lakewood Historic Preservation Commission may be required. This could involve:

Restrictions on modern materials (e.g., no vinyl or chain-link in visible areas)
Mandatory open-visibility designs (e.g., picket or wrought iron)
Color and style approvals

⚠️ Zoning Verification

Unsure about your property’s zoning? Request a zoning verification letter from Lakewood’s Planning Division to confirm applicable rules, setbacks, and restrictions.

🛠 Choosing Fence Materials & Construction Tips

Selecting the right materials ensures your fence is durable, compliant, and suited to Lakewood’s climate, which includes heavy snow, wind, and sun exposure.

✅ Allowed Materials in Most Areas

Cedar or redwood (natural, durable wood options)
Vinyl privacy fences (low maintenance)
Composite materials (e.g., Trex, eco-friendly and long-lasting)
Wrought iron or ornamental metal (ideal for decorative or historic areas)

🚫 Restricted or Prohibited Materials

Chain-link in front yards (often restricted for aesthetic reasons)
Barbed wire in residential zones
Electric fencing without proper signage and zoning approval
Salvaged or non-structural materials that don’t meet code

🔧 Best-Build Practices

Post Depth: Set posts 24–30 inches deep (below the frost line) in concrete to prevent shifting during freeze-thaw cycles.
Fasteners: Use galvanized or exterior-grade screws/nails to resist rust.
Spacing: Ensure proper spacing for rails and pickets to allow airflow and drainage, especially for wood fences.
Vinyl/Composite: Reinforce posts with steel and ensure a level base to prevent warping.

🧰 Material Maintenance Tips

Wood: Seal or stain every 2–3 years to prevent rot and weathering.
Vinyl: Low maintenance but clean regularly to avoid discoloration; avoid extreme heat exposure.
Composite: High upfront cost but minimal upkeep and excellent durability.
Wrought Iron: Apply rust-resistant coatings to extend lifespan.

💰 Fence Cost Breakdown & Gate Pricing

Fence costs in Lakewood vary based on materials, labor, and site conditions. Here’s a general breakdown:

Labor: ~50% of total project cost
Materials: Wood and vinyl are cost-effective; composite and wrought iron are pricier
Permit Fees: $50–$150, depending on project scope
Prep Work: Removing old fences, grading, or stump removal may add $3–$5 per foot

Gate Costs:

Side gate: $150–$400
Driveway gate: $400–$1,500+, especially with automation

⚠️ Avoid These Common Fence Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls to save time, money, and headaches:

Skipping 811: Digging without marking utilities is illegal and dangerous.
Ignoring Property Lines: Confirm boundaries with a survey to avoid neighbor disputes.
Wrong Height/Location: A 6-foot fence in the front yard will trigger violations.
Using Prohibited Materials: Chain-link in front yards or unapproved materials in historic areas will be denied.
Neglecting Slope: Fences on uneven terrain may exceed height limits; adjust designs accordingly.
Underestimating Wind: Lakewood’s gusty winds require sturdy posts and concrete footings.

🏠 Real-World Example

A Lakewood homeowner in Belmar attempted to install a 7-foot vinyl fence in their side yard without a permit. The city flagged the project for exceeding height limits and lacking approval. Denco Fence redesigned the fence to meet code, secured a permit, and completed the project, avoiding fines and delays.

🧩 Lakewood Variance & Exceptions

Need a taller fence or non-standard design? You can apply for a variance through Lakewood’s Board of Adjustment. Requirements include:

Demonstrating a unique hardship (e.g., steep terrain or privacy needs)
Proving no negative impact on neighbors
Attending a public hearing to address concerns
Contact the Planning Division for variance application details.

🏡 Dealing with HOAs & Neighborhood Rules

HOAs in Lakewood may impose stricter rules than city codes, including:

Height and material restrictions
Color or design standards
Setback requirements
Approval from architectural committees

Some HOAs require 15–30 days for approval. Always obtain written HOA approval before starting construction, even if your fence complies with city regulations.

🤝 Lakewood’s Good Neighbor Tips

While Colorado lacks a “Good Neighbor Fence Law,” communication is key:

Notify neighbors before building, especially on shared property lines.
Consider cost-sharing if neighbors benefit from the fence.
Document agreements in writing for clarity and legal protection.

🧰 Questions to Ask Your Fence Installer

Before hiring a contractor, ask:

Will you handle the permit and site plan submission?
What post depth and concrete type do you use?
Do you use galvanized or exterior-grade fasteners?
Can you provide photos of past Lakewood projects?
What warranty do you offer?
Is financing available?

At Denco Fence, we answer with confidence: yes, we do it right.

⏱ Installation Timeline (Typical Flow)

Permit Review: 5–10 business days
Scheduling: 2–4 weeks, depending on season
Installation: 2–4 days on-site
Curing: Allow 1–2 days for concrete to set before heavy use (e.g., gates or pet activity)

📚 Helpful Resources & Links

☎️ Don’t Want the Headache? Call Denco Fence

Navigating permits, zoning, HOAs, and construction details can be overwhelming. That’s why Lakewood homeowners trust Denco Fence to deliver:

Full permit and HOA coordination
High-quality, code-compliant materials and installation
Expert design and consultation
Beautiful, long-lasting fences

Call today for a free estimate and build a fence the right way—from day one.

Denco Fence Company