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Local zoning authorities govern many construction projects in the state, such as commercial fencing installation. Every business owner must secure permits before any undertaking to avoid hefty fines or stopping the project altogether.
Commercial fencing zoning regulations can differ significantly between cities. You should contact the appropriate building officials in your area for more detailed information, especially if you are unfamiliar with local fencing regulations.
Florida Commercial Fencing Regulations
Residential and commercial fencing have slightly different local zoning and building code stipulations.
The law is less stringent for residential properties and mainly addresses the shared responsibility for fences that run along boundary lines. According to Florida law, landowners are not obligated to erect fences, nor is one obligated to share in the expense of the construction and maintenance of one unless agreed upon.
Because of safety and security concerns, commercial fence installations have stricter rules and compliance. Florida commercial fencing construction requires a separate permit in addition to the new building permit. City regulations for commercial fence installation also vary. Before looking for commercial fence installation near you, review these general guidelines.
Commercial Fence Height
Height restrictions are necessary to ensure public safety and prevent view obstruction. The height of a commercial fence varies according to the type of business you have. However, Florida building code requires a commercial fence not to exceed 7 feet tall.
Larger businesses can raise the height limit to 12 feet only after securing a variance or receiving permission after submitting a request. The local zoning board still needs to approve the variance for any additional fence height.
Fence Materials
Commercial fences require durable materials to withstand force and heavy usage for long-term security and resistance to damage. Some approved fencing materials for commercial use include:
- Chain Link: This is one of the more common materials for large public and commercial properties. Chain-link fences are affordable, low-maintenance, secure, and provide better visibility.
- Aluminum: An aluminum fence is best for commercial properties looking for security and visual appeal. These fences are durable, rust-resistant, and versatile and can also be customized to match the architectural structure of any facility.
- Steel: Steel is robust and long-lasting, often used in commercial and public properties that require a higher level of security.
Some Florida districts restrict the use of nontraditional fence materials. Fabric sheets, vinyl, plastic, nets, and metal panels must not be used as part of the fence for privacy screening. Some counties may allow these materials to be attached, provided they are properly maintained.
Barbed wire and fences made of sharp objects are prohibited. However, depending on the purpose, they may sometimes be allowed, especially when additional security is required.
Visibility
A commercial fence must be highly visible to traffic. Its location shouldn’t create a blind spot for pedestrians, drivers, or surveillance equipment. It must also adhere to the minimum setback requirements from intersections and the front of the building. High visibility is necessary to ensure the safety of everyone accessing or passing by the property. Fences that hinder the roadway and obstruct traffic visibility violate zoning codes.
Regulations on Security Gates
Commercial properties that require higher security must also comply with regulations. When adding a security gate, additional safety features like warning signs are necessary. Access control systems may also be added to prevent unauthorized entries.
Access control systems and devices are physical security systems that control who can enter a property. You may find these access control systems at All Security Equipment.
Likewise, building authorities may also specify the security gate location for traffic visibility.
Maintaining Your Fence
Florida fencing regulations are not limited to the construction of a commercial gate. Regular maintenance is also required to prevent damage and keep the fence in good shape. Property owners must ensure that no encroaching vegetation covers the fence and that it is presentable to visitors.
Low-maintenance fence materials like aluminum fences are the best to save time and effort on upkeep. Aluminum fences are not prone to rusting and corrosion and are durable enough to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Regulations for Altering and Removing a Fence
You also can’t just alter an existing fence structure without first securing a new permit. If you want to make changes to your commercial fence, like changing the height or location of the gate, you need to apply for and process the permit as a new installation. A permit is also necessary when removing any fence or structure.
Other Special Considerations for Commercial Fencing
If you plan to install commercial fencing in Florida, it helps to educate yourself on the existing regulations beforehand. Misconceptions may result in fines and penalties, knowing that commercial regulations differ from residential fencing guidelines.
Business owners also need to understand variances in fence installation. A variance allows property owners to legally make changes that would otherwise violate the stipulations outlined in local zoning laws. You can request a permit and justify the changes for the zoning board's approval.
Remember, applying for a variance doesn’t always guarantee approval. The business owner still has to provide proof to justify the need for deviation.
Additionally, Florida law requires the issuance of written notice of fence construction to all adjacent properties before any fence work commences. The notice should detail the fence type, location, and intended use. Failure to provide it may result in legal consequences and fines.
Final Thoughts on Commercial Fencing in Florida
When planning any construction, no matter how small, it pays to check with local building authorities for compliance. This is not only about avoiding penalties but also about ensuring the overall safety of the structure and adherence to standards.
If you need fence and gate materials for maximum property security, visit All Security Equipment for an extensive list of gate security options.
Feel free to contact our customer service team for support.
