Prince George's County Homeowner's Guide to Permits Privacy Walls

Privacy walls used for fencing are usually constructed of brick, block, stone or concrete.

When planning the construction (or installation) of a privacy wall, it is very important to consider existing drainage patterns on your lot and allow for run-off to pass through or around the wall in a manner that will not alter these drainage patterns. This includes rainfall run-off that originates on your property and that which flows through your lot from adjacent properties. Grades on either side of the wall must remain as they were prior to construction.

To construct a privacy wall of over four feet high, you must apply for a building permit and submit site plans showing existing and proposed structure location(s) including well and/or septic (if applicable). Structural plans must also be submitted. Privacy walls have the same setback requirements as fences according to the zoning and existence of private well and/or septic systems. If you are located in a subdivision with a Homeowner's Association (HOA), a separate approval from the HOA may be necessary. Unless erected by the homeowner, all home improvement projects require a contractor who is licensed with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission.