FAQs • Eastham, MA • CivicEngage

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If my fence is less than 7 feet tall, does it need to meet setback requirements?: No, there are no setback requirements for fences 7 feet tall or less. You can place the fence up to your property line, as long as it remains on your property. We recommend placing the fence at least a foot within your property boundary so you can perform maintenance work on the exterior of the fence without trespassing on your neighbor’s property.

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Fences

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1. Do I need a permit for a fence?: If the fence is 7 feet tall or less, you do not need a permit for a fence. Most standard privacy fences are less than 7 feet tall.

2. If my fence is less than 7 feet tall, does it need to meet setback requirements?: No, there are no setback requirements for fences 7 feet tall or less. You can place the fence up to your property line, as long as it remains on your property. We recommend placing the fence at least a foot within your property boundary so you can perform maintenance work on the exterior of the fence without trespassing on your neighbor’s property.

3. What if the fence is taller than 7 feet?: If the fence is taller than 7 feet, you do need a building permit.

4. If my fence is taller than 7 feet, does it need to meet setback requirements?: Yes. The fence must be a minimum of 30 feet away from all streets/ways, a minimum of 12 feet away from side and rear lot lines, and at least 8 feet away from all other structures on your lot.

5. Does it matter which side of the fence faces out?: No, either side of the fence may face in or out, no matter the height of the fence.

6. How do I apply for a permit?

To apply for a permit for a fence taller than 7 feet, please mail in or drop off the following items:

An Express Permit Application (PDF) filled out as completely as you are able
A plot plan showing the location of the proposed fence. The fence must meet Setback Requirements (PDF)
A completed Homeowner Exemption Affidavit (PDF) or copies of your contractor's licenses and certificate of insurance
$50 fee payable to the Town of Eastham

7. Can I get a variance if I can’t meet setbacks?: You are welcome to apply to the Zoning Board of Appeals if your application is denied, but it is highly unlikely that a variance will be granted.

8. I don’t have my plot plan. Where can I find a copy?: You can request a copy of your plot plan by emailing the Building Department. If we do not have a plot plan on file, you may use a map from the Town’s online assessing kiosk.

9. How do I know if my permit is issued?: All pre-paid permits are automatically mailed to the applicant once issued. If a fee is due, we will call you to notify you of the fee. Once we receive the fee, we will mail the permit to you.