Fence Installation in Fernandina Beach, FL

Fence permits are required — no size exception noted

The City of Fernandina Beach's own guidance states plainly that a fence permit is required for installing a new fence or replacing an existing one — unlike some jurisdictions, the city's published FAQ doesn't call out a small-fence exemption, so it's worth confirming directly rather than assuming a short fence is exempt. Fencing specifics (height, setbacks, materials) fall under Land Development Code Section 5.01.10. For questions, the City's Planning Department can be reached at (904) 310-3480.

Historic District: a lighter-weight review than St. Augustine

If your property is within Fernandina Beach's Historic District, you'll need a staff-level certificate of approval in addition to your fence permit — notably a simpler process than the full board review some other historic areas require, though it's still an extra step beyond a standard permit. Applications for Historic District Council matters are available online, or you can email the Planning and Conservation office directly for guidance.

Coastal material considerations

Since nearly the entire city sits on a barrier island, salt air exposure here is a bigger factor than almost anywhere else in Northern Florida. Standard chain link and uncoated hardware corrode noticeably faster this close to the ocean. Vinyl, or a coated/galvanized chain link option, tends to hold up far better over time here than it would inland.

Confirm your jurisdiction

Not every property with a Fernandina Beach mailing address is actually inside city limits — some surrounding areas of Amelia Island and the mainland are unincorporated Nassau County instead, which permits separately. Check the Nassau County Property Appraiser's site or call the City's Planning Department to confirm before applying.