Property owners throughout Minnesota must know their property’s boundaries. Fences can only be built within the property boundaries. Exceptions can be made if there is a signed agreement with the neighboring property.

As long as the new construction doesn’t require entry into a neighbor’s property, there is no legal requirement to notify your neighbors of new fence construction. However, it is still the polite thing to do. A little heads-up can go a long way, especially if your neighbor has kids or pets. No one likes being surprised by new construction outside their window.

All fence construction in the city of Lakeville requires obtaining a zoning permit. Fences that will be greater than 7 feet in height mandate an additional building permit. The zoning permit application for fences is only $30.

The Lakeville zoning permit requires more information than other municipalities in Minnesota. Applications must detail what material will be used, the type of fence (privacy, kennel, pool enclosure, or decorative), a copy of a Certificate of Survey, setbacks from the property line, and the fence height.

Before the construction breaks ground, someone from the Northland Fence team will get in touch with Gopher State One. Gopher State One will mark all underground utilities, ensuring safety for everyone during the construction. Like most states, Minnesota has strict rules that mandate utility lines be marked before any new construction.

Lakeville has fluctuating height mandates based on the fence’s directional location to the house in addition to the lot location. Regardless of the lot location, front yard fences may not exceed 4 feet in height and must have 75% opacity. A special building permit may provide some flexibility regarding this requirement. Fences in the side or rear of the property may be as tall as 6 feet.

Corner lots in Lakeville must follow the “visibility triangle” rule. Structures within 45 feet of a street intersection may not exceed 3 feet. However, this rule may be negated if building from a property line setback of at least 10 feet. The “visibility window” rule can be confusing, especially in Lakeville. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.

Lakeville does not permit the blocking or restriction of easements. Utility poles, electrical boxes, public walkways, fire hydrants, public passageways, and other infrastructural elements are examples of easements.

In very rare cases, the city may allow fences to be built over easements. This requires special permission, and we can help you pursue these permits if needed.