Fences and Walls

Quick Overview

Before you begin construction of a fence, it is important to familiarize yourself with applicable codes and regulations adopted by the City of Indianola. These regulations exist for your protection. For more information, please review the Fence Requirement Handout or contact the Community Development Department.

Codes and Regulations

Fences are regulated by Chapter 165.04.4 titled 'Fences and Walls' within the City of Indianola's Zoning Code. The city does not require fence permits, however, fences and walls must meet minimum requirements outlined in the code. Please also remember that the city does not locate property lines -- a Professional Land Surveyor would be needed to determine accurate property line boundaries. Please use the following overview for fence and wall requirements for residential fencing/wall projects.

Fence Materials and Design

When designing you fence project, please keep the following in mind relating to allowed materials and design:

• Allowable materials for fences include chain-link, wrought iron, aluminium, wood, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Wood fencing must be resistant to decay (such as treated lumber).
• Material such as sheet metal, chicken wire, woven wire, and construction/snow fencing is prohibited as a fencing material.
• Fence color must be earth tone, neutral, or of a natural color.
• Fence frames and supports must be placed on the inside of the fenced-in area.
• Fences within the front yard area must be designed as 40% open.
• Fences located in front yard areas may be up to 4-feet in height. Fencing located in the rear yard may be up to 6-feet in height. Please note that properties located on corner lots have two front yard areas, which must meet the 4ft fence height requirement and must account for a 25'x25' visibility triangle at the street intersection.

Fence Locations and Setbacks

When finding a location for your fence, the following must be kept in mind relating to locations and setbacks.

• Fences located in the front yard area must be at least 2-feet away from property lines that are next to a public street.
• Fences cannot block passage through a recorded sidewalk, trail, or ingress/egress easement.
• Fences must be located on the owner's property.
• If a fence is located in an overland flowage easement, the fence and fencing style must be at least 30% open. Additionally, the fence must be elevated at least 3-inches to allow for water flowage. Lastly, the property owner must maintain this area and take measures to ensure that water is not being restricted from flowing.