The CDOT Fence and Wall Certificate
What the free CDOT certificate covers, when your fence needs one, and how to prepare the drawing.
The CDOT Fence and Wall Certificate is a free review by the Charlotte Department of Transportation for fences and walls along or near city-maintained streets and sidewalks. CDOT checks that the fence stays out of the public right-of-way and doesn't block sight distance. It doesn't replace a building permit when one is required. Fences along state-maintained roads follow NCDOT policy instead.
Why it exists
In many older Charlotte neighborhoods the public right-of-way extends past the curb, beyond the planting strip and sidewalk and sometimes several feet into what looks like your yard. A fence built in the right-of-way can be ordered removed. Fences near corners and driveways can also block drivers’ view of pedestrians and traffic.
What to submit
A simple scaled drawing (the city lists scales such as 1 inch = 20, 30, 40 or 50 feet) showing:
- Property lines and the right-of-way line
- Street, curb, planting strip and sidewalk
- Driveways
- Proposed fence or wall location, height and material
- Corner sight triangle area if on a corner
Tips
- Measure from the back of the sidewalk, not the curb, and confirm where the right-of-way actually ends.
- Keep posts out of planting strips and away from street tree roots.
- Apply early if you have a deadline.
It’s not the same as
- A building permit (needed for fences over 6 feet)
- Historic district approval
- HOA approval
We prepare the drawing as part of our estimate when a certificate applies. See Do I need a permit?.
Questions Charlotte homeowners ask
How do I apply?
Submit a scaled drawing showing the property, street, sidewalk, right-of-way line and fence location to CDOT’s fence and wall review (Charlotte.fence.wall@charlottenc.gov at the time of writing). Check the city’s website for the current process.
Does a backyard fence need one?
Usually not, unless the back or side of the lot fronts a city street or sidewalk, as on corner and through lots.
Is my street city or state maintained?
Many neighborhood streets are city-maintained, while some major roads are state-maintained. We check every frontage.
Reviewed by the 76 Fence Charlotte installation team. Updated November 2, 2026. Charlotte rules change, so confirm permits, CDOT, historic district and HOA requirements before you build. This page is general information, not legal advice.
Keep reading
- Invisible Dog Fence vs. a Real Fence
- Wind- and Storm-Resistant Fences
- Fences for Rental Properties
- Cleaning Pollen Off Your Fence
- Why Fence Posts Rot (and How to Prevent It)
- Fences Near the Lynx Light Rail
Get a straight answer for your lot.
We check the line, the rules and the ground, then send a clear written quote. No dispatch fee.