Fence Permit Requirements in Olathe, KS

by | Jul 14, 2025 | Uncategorized

Fence Permit Requirements in Olathe

Fence Permit Requirements in Olathe, KS

Fence Permit Requirements in Olathe

Do you need a fence permit in Olathe, Kansas?

In most cases, no — if your fence is 7 feet tall or less, you do not need a permit to build a fence in Olathe. However, you must still follow specific city code regarding height limits, materials, and placement. Fences taller than 7 feet, or those built within easements or in conflict with visibility rules, do require a permit. Understanding these distinctions is key to staying compliant and avoiding expensive rework.

In this article, we break down the exact regulations, when a permit is necessary, and how to get started with your fence project in Olathe, Kansas.

Olathe Fence Permit Overview

According to Olathe Municipal Code Section 15.02.140, residential fences do not require a permit if they meet the following:

✅ No permit required if:

  • Fence is 7 feet tall or shorter
  • Fence is built entirely on your property and not in a utility easement
  • Fence complies with all zoning and setback regulations

🚫 Permit required if:

  • Fence exceeds 7 feet in height
  • Fence is installed in a floodplain, drainage easement, or utility easement
  • Fence is part of a commercial or multi-family property
  • Fence impedes required visibility triangles (especially on corner lots)

Note: Even without a permit, you are still legally required to meet all applicable code standards.

Fence Height and Visibility Rules in Olathe

Rear and Side Yards:

  • Max height: 7 feet
  • No special transparency requirement

Front Yards:

  • Max height: 4 feet
  • Fences must be at least 50% open (e.g., picket or wrought iron)

Corner Lots:

  • Visibility triangles must be maintained
  • Solid fences are typically limited to 2.5–3 feet near intersections

These height and openness requirements help maintain visibility for drivers and pedestrians.

Fence Materials and Design

The city allows most standard residential fencing materials, including:

Fences must be:

  • Structurally sound and in good condition
  • Installed with the finished side facing outward toward adjacent properties or streets

Prohibited materials include barbed wire, electric fences (in residential areas), and temporary plastic fencing.

Property Lines and Easements

  • Always build within your property lines — it’s your responsibility to confirm the boundary before building.
  • If your fence encroaches on a utility or drainage easement, the city may remove it without compensation.
  • For corner lots, be extra cautious around visibility triangles and required setbacks.

Before digging, always contact Kansas 811 to locate underground utilities.

🔗 Click here to visit Kansas 811 or call 811 at least two business days before digging.

HOA Requirements in Olathe

If you live in a neighborhood governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA), be sure to get approval before building your fence. HOA restrictions often include:

  • Specific approved materials
  • Color and style regulations
  • Additional height restrictions

Keep in mind: HOA approval is separate from city code compliance. You must follow both.

When a Permit Is Required: Application Steps

If your fence exceeds 7 feet or falls under a permit-required situation, follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare Your Site Plan

Include:

  • Property boundaries
  • Fence location and height
  • Materials and design details

Step 2: Apply Through the Olathe Building Codes Division

Use the Residential Building Permit Application

Step 3: Submit Plans and Pay Fees

  • Permit fees vary depending on project scope
  • You’ll be contacted if any revisions or inspections are needed

Step 4: Receive Approval Before Starting Construction

Do not start construction before your permit is approved, or you risk a stop-work order and additional penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions – Olathe Fence Permits

Do I need a permit for a 6-foot privacy fence in Olathe?

No — fences 7 feet or shorter are exempt from permit requirements.

Can I build a solid fence in my front yard?

Only if it’s 4 feet or less and at least 50% open. Solid privacy fences are not allowed in front yards.

How close can I build to the property line?

You can build up to the property line, but it’s your responsibility to verify exact boundaries. Avoid easements.

What happens if I build over 7 feet without a permit?

You may face fines, be required to remove or modify the fence, and may delay property sales or refinances.

Can you apply for me?

Yes! At Picket Pros, we handle fence permits, site planning, and HOA coordination as part of our full-service installation process.

Partner With Picket Pros for Worry-Free Fence Installation

At Picket Pros, we take the guesswork out of building fences in Olathe. Whether you need a beautiful cedar fence, low-maintenance vinyl fence, or strong ornamental steel fencing, our team ensures you stay compliant every step of the way.

We’ll:

  • Check local codes and easements
  • Coordinate HOA approvals
  • Mark utilities via 811
  • Handle everything from permits to cleanup

📞 Call us at 913-358-5305 or visit our Olathe fence installation page to schedule a free estimate.

Table of Contents