Property owners are strictly responsible for knowing their property’s boundaries. Fences can only be assembled fully within those lines. Fences are not allowed to obstruct traffic visibility, public rights of way such as public sidewalks or alleyways, or utility easements such as fire hydrants or telephone poles. If two neighbors sign an ownership agreement, fences may be built along property lines.

We at Northland Fence can help plan your fence boundary based on your property. Feel free to use our fence planning tool as a great additional resource.

Neighbors only need to be notified if you plan to enter their property during construction. Otherwise, there is no legal obligation to notify your neighbors of new fence construction. However, it’s still good practice to let them know. Nobody likes being surprised by the sound of nearby construction.

For residential fences under six feet, no permit is required. Robbinsdale operates on the honor system. However, codes must still be followed to avoid any unwanted and expensive surprises. For fences that exceed 6 feet in height, permits are mandatory.

No matter who’s doing the installation, Gopher State One must be contacted first. They are responsible for marking the location of underground utility lines like gas, electric, plumbing, and data. Northland Fence will work with Gopher State One on your behalf, so no extra work is needed on your end. DIY installers must contact Gopher State One on their own. Damaging utility lines can be dangerous and expensive.

In Robbinsdale, no fence can exceed 6 feet unless a special permit is obtained. Front yard fences may not exceed 4 feet, again unless special permission is granted. Additional height restrictions apply if they would obstruct visibility at an intersection. This is generally only a concern on some corner lots.

Fences can not be built on easements under any circumstances. Any fence that blocks access to an easement will need to be removed by the homeowner after 30 days of notification. Otherwise, the fence will be removed by the city at the owner’s expense.

Dangerous designs, such as barbed wire or electric fences, are strictly prohibited in Robbinsdale. Fences must be made of durable material that can withstand all weather conditions. Fences must be placed in a way so the good side is facing outwards towards the public area.

Chain link fences must include a top rail and all sharp ends must be downward facing towards the landscape or pavement.