A Guide to Saline, Michigan’s Fence Ordinances

So, you’re contemplating the addition of a fence to your Saline, Michigan property? Excellent choice! A well-placed fence can enhance privacy, define boundaries, and add a touch of aesthetic charm to your home. However, before you unleash your inner landscape architect, it’s crucial to understand the local fence ordinances. This guide serves as a compass, helping you navigate the regulatory landscape and ensure your fence project aligns with the rules of the city.

Disclaimer: Proceed with Caution!

This document is intended as a helpful overview, not a definitive legal treatise. It should never be used as the sole basis for resolving property disputes or making critical decisions regarding your fence. For the complete, unvarnished truth, consult the official document of codes and ordinances pertaining to fences in Saline [link to complete document].

Deciphering the Code: Design and Location Demystified

Saline’s fence ordinances are designed to balance the needs of property owners with the aesthetic and safety considerations of the community. Here are some key elements to consider:

Property Line Pilgrimage:

The general rule is that your fence must reside entirely within your property boundaries. Think of it as an invisible force field protecting your domain. However, there’s an exception: with written consent from your adjacent neighbor, you can embark on a joint venture and place the fence on the shared property line. This requires a spirit of cooperation and a signed agreement.

Height Restrictions:

A Tale of Two Yards: In the rear and side yards of your property, you can generally erect a fence up to a maximum height of 6 feet. However, the situation changes as you approach the front of your home.

The Front-Facing Frontier:

Saline’s ordinances recognize that front yards contribute significantly to the overall streetscape. To maintain a welcoming appearance, fences exceeding 36 inches in height are prohibited from extending beyond the front face of your home. Imagine an invisible line drawn from the front of your house; your fence can’t cross it unless it meets specific criteria.

Ornamental Exceptions: A Twist in the Plot:

For fences situated beyond the front face of your home or within the front yard itself, a more restrictive set of rules applies. These fences must be primarily ornamental, non-sight-obscuring, and no taller than 36 inches. However, there’s a plot twist! Corner lots, which often present unique visibility challenges, may be granted an exception. In these cases, a non-sight-obscuring fence that is ornamental may reach a maximum height of 5 feet.

Commercial vs. Industrial: A Tale of Two Districts:

The rules governing fences also vary depending on the zoning district. In commercial districts, fences in rear and side yards cannot exceed 6 feet in height. However, in industrial districts, the regulations are more lenient, allowing fences to reach a maximum height of 12 feet.

Residential Restrictions: Safety First!

In residential areas, certain materials are strictly prohibited for safety reasons. Barbed wire, spikes, electrical charges, and anything similar are forbidden. This ensures that fences don’t pose an unnecessary hazard to residents and passersby.

Gate Expectations: Respecting the Public Way:

Gates are a necessary component of many fences, but they must be carefully designed to avoid obstructing public access. Saline’s ordinances stipulate that gates cannot swing open over any public right of way.

Maintenance Mandate: A Duty of Care:

Building a fence is just the beginning. You also have a responsibility to maintain it in good condition. This includes repairing damage, repainting as needed, and ensuring that the fence remains structurally sound and visually appealing.

The Permit Process: A Rite of Passage

Before you can begin construction, you must obtain a fence permit from the City of Saline. This involves gathering the required documents and submitting them for review.

To successfully navigate the permit process, you’ll need the following:

The Permit Application:

Link to Fence Permit Application

This is your official request to build a fence. Fill it out thoroughly, providing accurate information about your property and the proposed fence. Homeowners, fence companies, and contractors can all use this application.

The Property Survey: Unveiling the Boundaries:

A copy of your property or mortgage survey is essential. This document details the location of your property lines in relation to your home and other structures. It’s the map that guides your fence placement.

The Proposed Layout: A Visual Blueprint:

You must provide one (1) copy of a detailed drawing or layout of the proposed fence installation. This layout should include:

• All buildings and structures on your property
• Any existing fences, walls, or other barriers
• Precise measurements of the proposed fence, including height, length, and distance from property lines

Navigating the Building Department: Your Resource Center

The Saline Building Department is your go-to source for information about permits, ordinances, and property-related matters. You can obtain valuable guidance and clarification by contacting the department directly.

A Final Word: Embrace Due Diligence

Building a fence in Saline involves more than just hammering posts and stringing wire. It requires careful planning, a thorough understanding of the local ordinances, and a commitment to responsible construction. By taking the time to educate yourself and comply with the regulations, you can ensure that your fence project is a success, enhancing your property and contributing to the overall beauty of the community.