Before you build a new fence in Shreveport, Bossier City or the surrounding towns, it's worth checking three things: whether your city or parish requires a permit, whether your HOA has rules, and where your property line actually is. Getting these right up front can save you from having to move or tear out a brand-new fence.

Rules change and vary by location, so always confirm with your local permit office and your HOA before you build. This guide is general information, not legal advice.

Do you need a fence permit?

It depends on where you live. Shreveport, Bossier City, Benton, Haughton and the unincorporated parts of Caddo and Bossier Parishes each set their own rules. Things that commonly affect whether a permit is needed include:

• Height. Taller fences are more likely to need a permit or a special approval.
• Location on the lot. Front yards and corner lots often have stricter height limits so drivers can see around corners.
• Pool fences. Fences around pools often have their own safety requirements.
• Commercial property. Commercial fences are more likely to need permits and plans.
• Historic districts and easements. Some areas have extra review.

Where to check

• Shreveport: the City of Shreveport permits office and the Shreveport-Caddo Metropolitan Planning Commission.
• Bossier City: the City of Bossier City permits office.
• Other towns and unincorporated areas: your town hall or parish office.

When you get an estimate from us, ask about permits. We'll tell you what we know about your area and help you understand what the office asks for.

HOA rules

If your home is in a neighborhood with a homeowners association, the HOA's rules can be stricter than the city's. Common HOA fence rules include:

• Maximum height, often different for front and back yards
• Approved materials and colors
• Which side of the fence must face out
• How far the fence must sit back from the front of the house
• Getting written approval before you build

Most HOAs want a simple application with a drawing and the material. We can give you a layout and product details to include. Fences like Bufftech vinyl and Ameristar aluminum are popular in HOA neighborhoods because they look the same year after year.

Finding your property line

Building on the wrong side of the line is one of the most expensive fence mistakes. To find your line:

• Look for your survey in your closing papers.
• Look for metal survey pins at the corners of your lot.
• If you can't find them, or your neighbor disagrees, hire a licensed surveyor.

Many homeowners build a few inches inside their line to be safe. Talking with your neighbor before you build also goes a long way.

Call before you dig

Louisiana law requires utility locates before digging. Louisiana 811 will have public utility lines marked so posts don't hit gas, power, water or communication lines. Private lines, like sprinkler systems, invisible dog fences, pool lines or power run to a shed, usually aren't marked, so let your installer know about them. We call in locates before every job.

Fence rules for pools

Pool fences usually have extra safety requirements, such as minimum height and self-closing, self-latching gates. Your insurance company may also have rules. See our pool fence page for more.

A simple checklist before you build

1. Check with your city or parish about permits.
2. Get HOA approval in writing, if you have an HOA.
3. Confirm your property line.
4. Talk with your neighbors.
5. Have utilities marked through Louisiana 811.
6. Choose a material and style that meets every rule.

Frequently asked questions

Will you pull the permit for me?

Ask us during your estimate. We'll explain what applies to your property and how we can help.

How tall can my fence be?

It depends on your city, your HOA and where on the lot the fence goes. Check with your permit office and HOA before you choose a height.

Which side of the fence should face my neighbor?

Many HOAs require the finished side to face out. A board-on-board fence looks finished on both sides.

Do I need my neighbor's permission?

If the fence is fully on your property, usually not, but talking with them first avoids problems.

Get help planning your fence

Superior Fence & Decks helps homeowners plan fences that look great and meet the rules. Call or text (318) 518-1524 for a free estimate. We're located at 126 Gardner St, Shreveport, LA 71106, and serve Shreveport, Bossier City, Benton, Haughton, Greenwood, Keithville, Stonewall and nearby towns.