Fence questions

The City of Beaumont says residential fences up to 6 feet tall don't need a building permit. Taller fences, and fences in other cities, can have different rules, and many HOAs require approval first. A local fence company can tell you what applies.

Six feet is the usual backyard height around Beaumont, and it's the limit for building without a permit in the city. Front-yard fences are often limited to 4 feet by city rules or HOAs. Check your HOA and city rules before you build.

Texas generally doesn't require neighbors to split the cost of a shared fence. Many neighbors agree to share it, and it helps to put that agreement in writing before work starts.

Often around 10 to 15 years, depending on the wood, the posts and how well it's kept up. Steel posts, a rot board at the bottom and stain every few years all stretch that out.

No fence is storm-proof, but chain link and aluminum let wind pass through and usually survive better than solid panels. For privacy fences, deep posts set in concrete, steel posts and shadowbox styles that let some air through all help.

Many policies cover fences under other structures for wind and falling trees, minus your deductible. Coverage varies, so check your policy and take photos before any cleanup.

Yes. Texas law requires a call to Texas 811 at least two business days before digging. It's free, and the fence company usually handles it.

Your survey or the plat from your closing papers shows it, and corner pins are often buried at the corners. If you're unsure, a licensed surveyor can mark it, which is cheaper than moving a fence later.

If the posts are mostly solid, repair the damaged sections. If posts are failing along the line or the fence is past about 15 years old, replacing it is often the better value.

Texas doesn't license fence contractors at the state level. Ask any company for proof of insurance, references or reviews, and a written quote before work starts.