Do You Need a Fence Permit in Anchorage or the Mat-Su Valley? A Homeowner’s Guide

Building a new fence in Alaska isn’t as simple as digging post holes and putting up panels. Depending on where you live — whether it’s in Anchorage, Wasilla, Palmer, or the surrounding Mat-Su Valley — you may need a fence permit before starting construction. Local governments have specific rules for fence height, placement, and materials, and skipping this step could mean fines, delays, or even tearing your fence down. In this guide, we’ll walk you through when you need a fence permit, how to apply, and tips to make the process smooth.

Why Fence Permits Matter in Alaska

Before you start hammering in posts, it’s worth understanding why fence permits exist:

• Avoid Fines and Delays: Installing without approval can result in penalties or a stop-work order.
• Stay Compliant with Safety & Zoning Rules: Rules are designed to keep sightlines clear for drivers, maintain property boundaries, and avoid damage to underground utilities.
• Protect Neighbor Relations: A compliant fence reduces disputes about property lines and blocked views.

Fence permits aren’t just red tape — they’re there to save you headaches and money. By getting the proper approval, you avoid costly fines, stay within safety and zoning regulations, and help prevent neighbor disputes over boundaries or blocked views. In short, a permit ensures your fence is legal, safe, and conflict-free from day one.

Fence Permit Rules in Anchorage

When You Need a Permit

In Anchorage, fence permit requirements depend on height and location:

• Front Yards: Fences over 4 feet tall require a permit.
• Back and Side Yards: Fences over 6 feet tall require a permit.
• Corner Lots: Height restrictions are often lower to protect driver visibility.
• Certain materials (like masonry walls) may have different rules.


In Anchorage, whether you need a fence permit comes down to where your fence is placed and how tall it is. Front yard fences over 4 feet and back or side yard fences over 6 feet typically require approval, while corner lots often face stricter height limits to keep driver visibility clear. Some materials, like masonry walls, may also have separate regulations.

How to Apply for a Fence Permit in Anchorage

Where to Apply: Visit the Municipality of Anchorage’s Development Services Department in person or apply online.

Fees: Usually range from $75–$150 depending on the project.

What You’ll Need:

• Property survey showing existing structures and lot lines
• Site plan with proposed fence location and dimensions
• Details about materials and construction methods

Processing Time: Typically 1–2 weeks.

Getting a fence permit in Anchorage is a simple process that ensures your project meets local regulations. With a small fee and a short review period, the permit provides peace of mind that your fence is properly planned, legal, and ready for safe installation.

Fence Permit Rules in the Mat-Su Valley

Differences from Anchorage Rules

The Mat-Su Borough (including Wasilla, Palmer, and unincorporated areas) has more flexible rules, but permits are still required in certain situations:

• Fences that exceed 6 feet in height - Taller fences may require a permit to ensure safety and neighborhood compliance.
• Fences in commercial or multi-family zones - These areas have stricter rules to maintain access, visibility, and aesthetics.
• Fences near roads or rights-of-way that could block visibility - Permits help prevent hazards for drivers and pedestrians by keeping sightlines clear.

How to Apply for a Fence Permit in the Mat-Su Borough

Where to Apply: Mat-Su Borough Permit Center (online or in person)

Fees: Usually between $50–$125

Required Documents:

• Site plan or property map
• Height and material details
• Processing Time: Often faster than Anchorage — sometimes just a few days.



Applying for a fence permit in the Mat-Su Borough is typically quick and straightforward. With a modest fee and a short review period, submitting the required site plan and material details ensures your project meets local regulations and can move forward smoothly.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make with Fence Permits

• Skipping the Permit: Hoping no one notices can lead to costly consequences.
• Building Over Property Lines: Even a few inches can cause legal headaches.
• Ignoring Height Limits: Especially on corner lots and front yards.

Skipping a fence permit or ignoring local regulations can quickly turn a simple project into a costly headache. Building without a permit may result in fines, stop-work orders, or being required to remove your fence entirely. Constructing over property lines, even by just a few inches, can create legal disputes with neighbors and complicate property records. Additionally, disregarding height limits—particularly on corner lots or in front yards—can violate safety codes and obstruct sightlines, putting both you and the community at risk. Taking the time to follow local rules ensures your fence is safe, legal, and hassle-free.

Tips for a Smooth Fence Permit Process

• Get a Property Survey: This ensures you build entirely on your land.
• Talk to Neighbors First: Prevents disputes later.
• Hire a Local Contractor: Professionals familiar with Anchorage and Mat-Su rules can save you time and stress.

Before starting your fence project, taking a few key preparatory steps can save time, money, and frustration. Getting a property survey ensures your fence is built entirely on your land, preventing accidental encroachments. Talking to neighbors ahead of time helps maintain good relationships and avoids disputes over boundaries or blocked views. Hiring a local contractor with experience in Anchorage and the Mat-Su Valley can further simplify the process, as they understand local codes, permit requirements, and the challenges of Alaska’s terrain and climate. Together, these steps make for a smoother, more efficient, and stress-free fence installation.

Final Thoughts: Building Your Fence the Right Way

Whether you live in Anchorage or the Mat-Su Valley, understanding fence permit requirements is the first step toward a smooth project. Following local regulations helps you avoid fines, keep peace with neighbors, and ensure your fence stands the test of Alaska’s harsh climate.

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