Getting Your Fence Approved by Your HOA
Many Huntsville-area neighborhoods have HOAs that require approval before you can build a fence. This guide explains what to expect, what you'll need to submit, and how we help make the process smoother.
What HOAs typically require
Site plan or survey
A drawing showing your property boundaries and where the fence will be installed. Some HOAs accept hand-drawn plans; others require a formal survey or plot plan.
Fence specifications
Details about the fence: material (wood, aluminum, etc.), style, height, and color. Many HOAs have approved materials lists you must choose from.
Gate locations
Where gates will be placed and what style they'll be. Some HOAs have requirements about gate visibility from the street or specific hardware.
Setback compliance
Proof that your fence won't violate setback requirements (distance from property lines, sidewalks, or easements). We help verify these for your property.
Neighbor notification
Some HOAs require you to notify adjacent neighbors before approval. We can provide documentation to help with this process.
Application form & fee
Most HOAs have a standard application form and may charge a review fee. Check with your HOA for their specific requirements and timeline.
Common HOA fence rules in Huntsville
Height restrictions
Many HOAs limit fences to 6 feet in backyards and 4 feet (or none) in front yards. Corner lots may have additional sightline requirements.
Material requirements
Some HOAs only allow certain materials—often wood or aluminum. Chain link may be prohibited or restricted to backyards only. Check your covenants.
Style & color
HOAs often specify acceptable styles (e.g., no horizontal slats) and colors (natural wood tones, black aluminum). The "good side" typically faces outward.
Pool fence requirements
If you have a pool, your HOA may have specific requirements for pool enclosures beyond standard fencing rules, including gate hardware and height.
How we help with HOA approvals
Review your HOA guidelines
Share your HOA's fence rules with us and we'll help ensure your planned fence complies. We're familiar with many Huntsville-area HOAs.
Provide documentation
We prepare drawings, specifications, and material details in the format HOAs typically request. This includes layout plans with measurements and gate locations.
Coordinate timing
We schedule your project knowing HOA approval takes time. We can start the approval process while finalizing your quote to avoid delays.
Handle revisions
If your HOA requests changes, we adjust the plan and resubmit. Most approvals go through on the first try when documentation is complete.
HOA approval FAQ
How long does HOA approval take?
It varies by HOA—anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Most Huntsville-area HOAs respond within 2-4 weeks. Check with your HOA for their typical timeline.
What if my HOA denies my fence request?
Denials usually come with an explanation. Common reasons include non-compliant materials, height, or placement. We can help you revise the plan to address their concerns.
Do I need HOA approval before getting a quote?
No. Get a quote first so you know what you want to build and what it costs. We can then help you prepare the HOA application based on the planned scope.
What if I build without HOA approval?
Building without approval can result in fines, required removal, or legal action. It's not worth the risk—get approval first.
Huntsville-area neighborhoods with HOAs
We're familiar with HOA requirements in many local neighborhoods, including:
- Hampton Cove
- Providence
- MidCity District
- Jones Valley
- Madison neighborhoods
- Harvest communities
- Meridianville subdivisions
- And many more...
Not sure if you have an HOA? Check your closing documents or ask us—we can help you find out.
Need help with your HOA application?
Request a quote and let us know you have an HOA. We'll help prepare the documentation you need for approval.