Fences

General Information

Fences up to 6.5 feet tall are permitted in all zoning districts of the Borough, with the following exceptions:

  • Split rail fences installed in front yard areas are limited to 5 feet in height.
  • Walls or fences around tennis courts shall not exceed 10 feet in height.

The complete zoning regulations relating to fences and retaining walls are located in § 502f.(8) of the Borough Code.


Fence Permitting

A permit is required for any fence over 30 inches tall.  Fences between 30 inches and 6 feet tall are administratively reviewed by the Planning Department.

If the fence exceeds 6 feet in height, a building permit is also needed from Centre Region Code.  To assist applicants with building code requirements, the Code Agency has fence guidelines available on their website.

The permit application form is shared by the Borough and Centre Region Code Agency, so only one application is needed regardless of fence height.

If the fence, or any portion thereof, is to be installed in any front yard area of the lot, the applicant must ensure that the design meets the height and see-through requirements of § 502f.(8)(d)(i).  A series of graphics illustrating the height and see-through requirements, as well as determination of front yard areas, is provided in the Code.

The submission requirements for all fences requiring permits include:

  1. A completed zoning/building permit application.  This permit form serves as the fence permit.
  2. Drawings showing the dimensions of the fence and compliance with front yard requirements when applicable, proposed fence or wall materials, the location on the lot, and the distance from the property lines.
  3. Fence permit fee, as established in the annual Fee Schedule.  The fee is due at the time of permit issuance.

Completed applications can be emailed to Ellie Gilmore at egilmore@statecollegepa.us or mailed/dropped off at the municipal building.

IMPORTANT:

All fence permit applications must be submitted to the State College Borough Planning Department prior to submitting to Centre Region Code.  The Code office will not review building permits for fences without first receiving municipal Zoning Officer approval.


Review of Applications

All fence permit applications are reviewed by the Borough Planning Department, and the Centre Region Code office when applicable.  While we strive to review applications promptly, incomplete or deficient submissions will cause delays.  Please contact the Planning Department at any time if you have questions.