Any fence you build has to be placed fully within your property lines. These are up to you as the homeowner to determine. If you want to build a fence on the property line, both neighbors must sign an ownership agreement. Fences cannot block traffic, public rights of way, or access to utility easements.

The fencing experts at Northland Fence will help plan your Forest Lake fence installation based on your needs. Our fence planning tool is also an excellent resource.

You don’t technically need to tell your neighbors about fence installation when it’s taking place solely on your property. However, your neighbors will appreciate open communication. That way, they aren’t surprised when construction starts.

All fence installations in Forest Lake require a permit from the Zoning Division at the City Center. Construction cannot begin until the $50 permit is paid and a city inspector surveys your property. Once this is done, you will receive a Certificate of Compliance and can begin installation.

Every time a fence is installed in Minnesota, Gopher State One Call must be called. Northland Fence will find and mark your utilities for you when you work with us. If you’re installing on your own, don’t forget to call utilities before you start digging!

Fence installation in Forest Lake must comply with height restrictions. Any fences in the front yard, or on a corner lot within 30 feet of an intersection, can only reach 4 feet in height. Back and side yards can have 6 foot fences. Any fence higher than 6 feet will require a special variance.

You are not allowed to build a fence on an easement in Forest Lake if the structure blocks easement access. If your fence is even partially on an easement and a passerby damages it, they will not be held responsible for repairs.

Barbed wire and electric fences are outlawed by the state of Minnesota.