Here's a Valdosta rule that catches people: fence height isn't measured from the ground where the fence stands. Section 214-6(C) of the city's Land Development Regulations says heights are measured from the adjacent top of the street curb.
Why it matters on a sloped lot
If your yard rises from the street toward the house, the ground at the fence line may already sit a foot or two above the curb. Measured from the curb, a 4-foot front fence there could count as 5 or 6 feet, over the limit. The reverse is true on a lot that falls away from the street.
Between neighbors
On inside lot lines, the rule changes: height is measured from the average grade of the lower of the two parcels. If your yard sits higher than your neighbor's, the fence is measured from their side.
What to do about it
- Measure first. Check the elevation of the fence line against the curb before choosing a panel height.
- Step the panels. On a slope, panels can step down so each section stays under the limit.
- Use the back yard's 8 feet wisely. Side and rear fences have more room, but the curb rule still applies on side yards that run toward the street.
- Ask the city if a lot has an unusual grade or no curb in front.
Corner lots
On corners, the 3-foot sight triangle (15 feet each way from where the right-of-way lines meet) applies on top of the curb rule.
Landscaping counts too
The rule covers hedges and other continuous foliage as well as fences, so a tall hedge along the front line follows the same limits.
Sources
Checked November 10, 2026. Regulations and price surveys change; rely on the linked original.