Selecting Fencing When Considering Zoning Laws

Shep was the neighborhood rogue, and you could track his exploits by following the trail of downed garbage cans throughout the town. Shep’s owner couldn’t be bothered taking his dog for walks and wouldn’t put up a fence to keep the dog from pooping in the neighbor’s yard or knocking down the elderly man who was walking his equally elderly dog.

Shep and his owner were despised, and neighbors eventually made use of the state’s containment and leash laws. Shep had bitten two dogs, and the final straw was when he bit a puppy’s face. Animal control told Shep’s owner that one more incident such as that and the dog would be seized and likely destroyed.

Shep’s owner would have saved himself and many of the neighborhood people and dogs (and cats and wildlife!) a lot of heartache if he had either put up a fence to contain Shep.

Before putting up a fence, property owners must check with town zoning to ensure that the type of fencing they select is actually approved by zoning laws. Two types of fencing that are often approved by zoning laws are chain link fencing and modular fencing.

One of the most common types of fences is the chain link fence. One of the reasons the fencing is so popular is because it often meets town zoning laws. This type of fencing also has several benefits including the fact that it doesn’t block one’s view and isn’t especially obvious. It is also available in different heights, which is good for different sized dogs. This type of fencing is also fairly long lasting when compared with others.

Some of the drawbacks of chain link fencing include its cost; it’s a bit more costly than some other types. Additionally, its transparency, though nice for viewing landscape, can also be a detriment if people tease the dog through the fence.

Some zoning laws prohibit permanent (that is, installed) fencing. In that case, you can try modular fencing, which often meets zoning requirements because it is not permanent. Modular fencing is a series of chain link panels that link together and sit on top of the ground, almost like a dog run. The weight of the panels keeps them in place; however, they can be pulled apart and moved around if necessary.

The drawback to this type of fencing is that it may not resist high winds or large dogs that can push the modules over or knock them over if they try to climb them.

If you have a dog that roams loose, installing fencing will do him, you and neighbors a favor, but you’ll need to check your neighborhood zoning laws to see what fencing options are available to you. Also research for hidden dog fence.

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