Installing a new fence is exciting, but once you start looking into permits, the timeline can feel confusing. In Volusia County, the time it takes to get a fence permit isn’t the same everywhere.
If you’re planning a fence project, here’s a clear overview of how long permitting typically takes in Volusia County — and how to make sure you don’t run into unnecessary delays.
Do I Need a Fence Permit in Volusia County?
According to Volusia County building permit requirements, permit needs depend on whether the property is located in an incorporated city or an unincorporated area of the county.
In unincorporated areas of Volusia County, most standard residential fences no longer require a building permit. However, there are important exceptions. Fences that serve as safety barriers for swimming pools still require a permit, and all fences must comply with zoning, setback, and environmental regulations.
If your property is located within a city such as Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Port Orange, DeLand, or another incorporated municipality, city-specific rules apply, and a fence permit may still be required. Each city has its own building department and review process.
Even when a permit is not required, homeowners are still responsible for following local zoning rules, including height limits, placement, and material standards.
Typical Permitting Timeframes in Volusia County
There’s no single answer, because each city and community handles fence permits a bit differently. But generally:
- Standard permits (non-coastal, residential):
Most cities in Volusia County review fence permit applications within 7–14 business days. - Coastal or special-condition properties:
Properties near the coast often require additional review, which can take 2–4 weeks or more. - Incomplete or unclear submissions:
If your application is missing information — like a clear site plan or the correct measurements — your review can be delayed by weeks.
Why Permit Times Vary by City
Volusia County includes multiple cities, each with its own permitting procedures. For example, Daytona Beach may follow a different review schedule than New Smyrna Beach, Port Orange, or DeLand. Some municipalities allow online submissions, while others require emailed or in-person applications. These differences alone can impact how quickly a permit is approved.
Coastal Properties Often Take Longer
If your home is near the ocean, dunes, wetlands, or a beach access point, expect the permit process to take longer. Coastal areas often require extra checks for:
- Wind load requirements
- Flood zones
- Setbacks from dunes or public access paths
- Visibility to roadways or public spaces
These extra reviews are meant to protect public safety and preserve coastal land, but they can add time to the process.
Common Causes of Permit Delays
Some of the most common reasons fence permits take longer than expected include:
- Incomplete applications
Missing drawings, incorrect measurements, or unclear fence descriptions can send your permit back for revisions. - HOA requirements
Many Volusia County communities have homeowner associations that require approval before a permit is issued. - Special-zone properties
Homes near wetlands, conservation areas, or coastal zones may need extra review. - High volume periods
Permit offices can slow down when they’re processing lots of applications, especially in busy seasons.
Penalties for Fence Permit Non-Compliance in Volusia County
Failing to follow fence permitting or zoning requirements can result in enforcement actions, even after a fence has been installed. Depending on the situation, non-compliance may lead to:
- Notices of violation issued by county or city code enforcement
- Orders to correct, modify, or remove the fence
- Fines that may accrue daily until compliance is achieved
- Stop-work orders if construction is ongoing
- Code Enforcement Board or Special Magistrate hearings, which may include additional administrative costs
In some cases, unresolved violations can result in liens placed on the property. Properties located within incorporated cities may also face city-specific penalties, which can differ from county enforcement procedures.
So, How Long Does Fence Permitting Take in Volusia County?
For most standard residential fence projects that require permits, approval typically takes one to two weeks once a complete application is submitted. Coastal properties or projects with special conditions may take longer. Confirming requirements early and submitting accurate documentation helps keep the process moving smoothly.
If you need help with fence permitting in Volusia County, Superior Fence & Rail can handle the process and keep your project on track. Contact us today at (386)-253-3623 or fill out our online form for a free estimate.
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