Fence Permit Requirements in St. Johns County, FL
St. Johns County Building Services issues all residential permits (building, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, roof, pool) for unincorporated county land outside the City of St. Augustine and City of St. Augustine Beach. Codes in force: Florida Building Code 8th Edition (2023) residential and building, NEC 2020, ASCE 7-22 wind design. County is in the wind-borne debris region (not HVHZ, which is only Miami-Dade and Broward). Impact-rated windows and doors or approved storm shutters required for residential openings. Septic permits handled by Florida Department of Health in St. Johns County at (904) 506-6081. Driveways on county roads go through St. Johns County Road and Bridge; driveways on US-1 or I-95 require FDOT approval. Historic district overlays may apply in some areas. Licensed FL CILB contractors required for most trades; owner-builder allowed under F.S. 489.103(7) for homesteaded primary residence with personal supervision affidavit.
By Joey, Founder · Last verified April 20, 2026 · How we research →
When you don’t need a Fence permit in St. Johns County
Backyard fences 6 feet or under typically do not require a building permit under FBCR 8th Edition R105.2. County zoning still governs location, and pool barrier rules apply separately if the fence encloses a pool.
When you need a Fence permit in St. Johns County
Pool barrier fencing requires a building permit. Under the Florida Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (Chapter 515 F.S.) and FBCR 8th Edition R4501, the barrier must be at least 48 inches high with a self-closing, self-latching gate opening outward from the pool.
Fences over 6 feet tall require a building permit per FBCR 8th Edition R105.2. Plans showing post embedment and wind-load bracing (per ASCE 7-22) must be submitted.
Fence Permit Costs: St. Johns County vs. Nearby
St. Johns County's fees are right in line with the Florida average, $75 – $200 versus $68 – $237 statewide.
| City | Estimated Fee |
|---|---|
| St. Johns County | $75 – $200 |
| Jacksonville | $80 – $150 |
| Miami | $98 – $520 |
| Tampa | $68 – $225 |
Fees shown are estimates based on local building code data. Actual fees may vary based on project scope and valuation. See all St. Johns County permit costs →
Zoning & HOA Considerations
Front-yard fences and fences above certain heights may require zoning approval. Many cities limit front-yard fence height to 3–4 feet. Check setback and height limits with your planning department.
If you live in an HOA community: hOAs frequently restrict fence materials, colors, heights, and styles, often more strictly than city code. Review your CC&Rs and submit to your Architectural Review Committee (ARC) before applying for a city permit.
Estimated Project Timeline in St. Johns County
Here's a typical timeline for a fence project in St. Johns County, FL:
Timeline is based on St. Johns County's typical about 1 week permit processing time. Actual timelines vary by project complexity, completeness of application, and current department workload.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Estimated permit fees for Fence projects in St. Johns County, FL range from $75 – $200. Fees vary based on project scope and valuation.
It depends on the specifics of your project. Some smaller Fence projects may be exempt from permit requirements, while larger ones typically require a permit. Use our free lookup tool to check your specific situation.
Working without a required permit in St. Johns County can result in fines, stop-work orders, being required to remove completed work, and complications when selling your home. It's always best to check first.
Typical approval time for Fence permits in St. Johns County is about 1 week. More complex projects may take longer if plan review is required.
If you live in an HOA community, you may need architectural review approval in addition to a building permit. HOA rules and city building codes are separate, you may need to satisfy both. Review your CC&Rs and submit to your HOA's architectural review committee before starting work.
Learn More About Fence Permits
Read our complete guide covering permit requirements, costs, common exemptions, and the application process.
Read Fence Guide →