You’ve picked your fence style and posts—but now comes the paperwork, the DPS, the timeline restrictions. Many homeowners find this to be the most frustrating part of installing a fence. That’s why hiring a contractor who “knows the system” can make all the difference.
In Fort Wayne / Allen County, the Department of Planning Services (DPS) requires a site plan, a $30 application, and construction must begin within 90 days. This guide walks you through exactly how to do it right, helping you get your Bloomingdale fence installation on schedule.
Understanding Bloomingdale’s Fence Height Basics
Allen County’s public FAQ explains fence rules. If your house is not at an intersection or on a corner lot in a subdivision, certain limits apply. You can build a fence up to 8 feet behind and to the side of your house. In the front, the fence should be no more than 2.5 feet tall. Visibility at corners must be considered for safety. Standards may vary depending on your lot and the specific Fort Wayne or Allen County codes. Check your parcel details to be certain.
How Local Zoning and Setbacks Affect Fence Height
The DPS fence application requires a detailed site plan showing your proposed fence location and distances from property lines. This confirms your fence meets local setbacks and follows district ordinance standards for proper permit review.
Make sure you follow the district standards in the proper ordinance. (For Fort Wayne, check City of Fort Wayne Code §157. For Allen County, look at Title 3.) Before drawing the fence on your site plan, apply these rules to your specific parcel. Doing this ahead of time helps avoid delays and keeps your project compliant with local regulations.
Front-Yard vs. Back-Yard Fence Limits
The County FAQ indicates a general pattern for non‑corner subdivision homes: up to 8 feet behind/side and 2.5 feet in front, with visibility considerations, reflecting lower limits in front yards and higher allowances in side/rear yards. Check your lot’s specific standards before finalizing design and height.
Why Corner Visibility and Driveway Sight Triangles Matter
The City of Fort Wayne Zoning Hearing Officer staff reports show that they actively enforce rules about fences. They approve taller fences and special conditions for front-yard fences through variances. When it’s essential to see clearly, fences near intersections and driveways should not block the view. If you’re unsure, mark your fence lines on a scaled site plan. This helps when you get permits, so everything is clear.
How to Apply for Fence Permits in Bloomingdale, Fort Wayne
- Verify zoning and whether prior approvals (variance, notable exception) affect the site; DPS provides zoning verification and records.
- Prepare a site plan or survey showing property lines, proposed fence location, setbacks, and gates.
- Complete the DPS Administrative Fence Application and include fence material, style, and exact height by yard segment, and pay the $30 fee to the Allen County Treasurer.
- Keep in mind. You need to start building within 90 days after getting the permit. If you wait too long, the permit expires. Many homeowners plan early and work with a contractor.
Variance Process for Fences Exceeding Limits
The City of Fort Wayne has rules about fence height and where fences can go. Sometimes people ask for permission to build taller fences or to put them in certain spots. Staff review these requests and sometimes approve them if there are good reasons.
If your fence exceeds Bloomingdale fence height rules, request a variance by preparing a site plan, photos, and a brief description. Explain how you will maintain safety and visibility. This streamlines approval and keeps your project compliant.
How the Neighborhood Setting Influences Compliance
Northwells near Northside have different street directions and activities. To avoid problems, plan your access and stake the front setbacks before starting. This will help maintain clear visibility where needed.
When scheduling a fence installation in Bloomingdale, also coordinate staging near Headwaters Church, Casa Street, and W Jacobs Avenue. This will help reduce sightline obstructions during work.
Materials, Design, and Orientation Considerations
DPS asks for details about your materials and style in the application. They review projects based on City of Fort Wayne Code §157 or Allen County Title 3. These rules can affect whether your project complies. Check property lines carefully to avoid easement conflicts. If visibility is essential, choose designs that keep the area open and transparent for views.
Compliance Checklist (Visual Guide)
- Confirm zoning and any prior approvals (variance/special exception) on record.
- Measure front, side, and rear segments and align with the FAQ pattern where applicable (2.5 feet front; up to 8 feet behind/side for non‑corner subdivision homes).
- Identify any visibility needs near corners/driveways; reflect this on the site plan.
- Complete the DPS application, attach the site plan with setbacks, and include the $30 fee.
- Begin construction within 90 days of permit issuance and retain records for inspections or verification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to build a compliant fence?
A complete and accurate submittal helps things go smoothly. It should include zoning confirmation, a measured site plan with setbacks, details about materials and height, and the fee. Having these ready means the review process is quicker and the permit won’t expire within the 90-day start window.
If you need help with Bloomingdale fence permits, installation, or making sure everything is up to code, contact Gleave Construction at 532 E Hawthorne St, Fort Wayne, IN 46806. Call 260-744-2757 or email Info@gleaveconstruction.com for a fast, no-obligation estimate.
