What are the requirements for fencing approval in Ogun State?

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What are the requirements for fencing approval in Ogun State?

Introduction

Fencing is often seen as a simple, straightforward task—installing a boundary wall or walling up a property to secure it, to increase privacy, to mark ownership, or to beautify a place. But in Ogun State, as in many jurisdictions, erecting a fence (especially perimeter or boundary fences) is not something you can simply do without considering local regulations and obtaining requisite approvals. Failing to obtain approval can lead to fines, demolition, or having to redo the fence, loss of legal protection, or conflicts with neighbors or government.

This article gives a comprehensive guide to what is required for fencing approval in Ogun: the legal framework, what you must do, what kinds of fences are allowed, designs and height restrictions, setbacks, process & fees, enforcement, risks of non‑compliance, and tips to make your application successful.

If you are planning to build a fence (boundary wall, perimeter fence, or walling) in Ogun, this is the guide you need. At the end there’s a call to action guiding you what to do next to ensure your fencing is approved and legal.

Legal & Regulatory Framework in Ogun State

To understand the requirements, it helps to know the laws, agencies, and policies that govern fencing in Ogun State.

Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Regulations
These are the regulations that govern physical development in Ogun State, including fencing. They specify the kinds of fences allowed, height limits, design (solid vs see‑through), location (front, side, rear, along roads / highway expressways), setbacks, rights‑of‑way, etc. Daily Trust+3Punch Newspapers+3charlesokogene.com+3
Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development & OGPDPA
The Ogun State Planning & Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA) is the agency responsible for issuing planning permits (development permits) in the state. They enforce building/fence regulations and inspect for compliance. Daily Trust+1
Building Production and Management Regulations (OGBPMA 2022)
These include more detailed provisions for construction, insurance, safety, etc. If your fence is part of a larger building or structure, or your construction is more than just “simple,” these regulations may apply. The Guardian Nigeria+1
Right‑of‑Way Laws and Expressway Regulations
Especially for fences along expressways, highways or major roads, there are special rules about how close fences can be, how high, whether see‑through grills are required, etc. Also rules about not encroaching on government land or State surveys and reserved widths for rights‑of‑way. charlesokogene.com+2The Details News+2
Survey & Layout Plans
Approved survey plans and layout approvals are required. These show exact boundaries of a plot, dimensions, location of buildings, and where fences will be. Without proper survey/layout documentation, you cannot get proper approvals. Ogun Today+2The Details News+2

Key Requirements for Fencing Approval

Below are the main things you will need to satisfy to get your fence approved in Ogun State.

Requirement	Details
Survey Plan	You must have a survey plan properly prepared by a registered/licensed surveyor. This shows your plot boundaries, the front road, side and rear lines. The survey plan must be registered with the State’s surveyor authority and sometimes with the Ministry or Bureau of Lands & Survey. Ogun Today+1
Proof of Ownership / Title Documents	You need to prove you own the land or have lawful rights to build. This could include Certificate of Occupancy, title deeds, grant, leases, etc. Sometimes consent or clearance from relevant authorities is needed.
Layout Plan / Layout Approval	If your property is part of a larger layout, estate, or subdivision, you must show the approved layout plan. This includes distances to roads, positioning of buildings, setbacks, and circulation. If no layout exists, sometimes layout approval must be obtained. Ogun Today
Fence Height and Design Regulations	Ogun State regulations specify maximum heights depending on type of fence, location (front, side, rear), solid vs see‑through components. For example: For residential front fences abutting a road, a maximum height of 2,100 mm (2.1 m) is allowed: with a maximum 1,200 mm solid component, topped with a see‑through grill/mesh up to 900 mm. For fences between adjacent properties, 2,100 mm maximum height: solid component up to 1,500 mm, topped with grill up to 600 mm. Punch Newspapers+1
See‑Through/Grill Sections	Along roads/highways, expressways, in front of properties: solid walls are limited; often see‑through or mesh/grill parts are required (especially for visibility, safety, policing, etc.). charlesokogene.com+1
Setbacks & Right of Way	You must ensure the fence is set back appropriately from roads or expressways. You cannot build within statutory rights-of-way (for example, the 70 meter right of way along some expressways). Fences encroaching into rights‑of‑way can be demolished. charlesokogene.com+1
Permit / Planning Approval	Your fence must be approved via a permit from the OGPDPA (or whatever relevant planning permit authority), after submitting necessary documents (survey, drawings, ownership proof, etc.). Sometimes you need to pay certain fees or penalties (if prior construction was done without permit) to regularize. Daily Trust+2theaffairs.ng+2
Insurance / Safety Provisions	If the fence is part of or associated with a larger structure above two floors etc., or if it supports services, you may need to comply with insurance rules (like “All Risk Insurance Policy Certificate”). Also general safety: ensuring the fence does not impede visibility, fire service access, etc. The Guardian Nigeria
Environmental / Aesthetic Considerations	The fence should not violate environmental laws (if near waterways, preserve drainage, etc.). Also aesthetic considerations: in estates, high streets, or regulations concerning beauty, view, public safety. Use of appropriate materials, finishes, etc.
Inspection & Compliance	After construction, there may be inspections by planning or building authorities to ensure compliance with the approved plan (height, design, setbacks, materials). Non‑compliance can lead to removal/demolition.

Special Considerations / Situations

Certain cases have additional or different rules:

Expressways / Highways & Rights‑of‑Way
Along major roads or expressways, there are regulations for fences to be “see‑through” in parts, to maintain visibility. Also you must avoid impinging on the statutory right‑of‑way. For instance, Ogun State enforces a 70‑meter right-of-way along the Abeokuta‑Sagamu and Sagamu‑Lagos Expressways. Fences built within that zone without proper clearance or permit are liable to be removed. charlesokogene.com+1
Front Fences vs Side / Rear Fences
The regulation is stricter for front fences (especially those abutting roads) in terms of design (solid vs grill), height. Side or rear fences may have more leeway, but still must abide by the maximum height, materials, and do not block access, drains, fire escape, etc.
Estates, Government Reserved Areas (GRAs), Special Layouts
Estates often have additional bylaws about uniform design, materials, colors, heights, gates etc. If your property is within such an area, you may need to comply with both the state regulation and the estate’s internal regulations. For example, Ibara GRA had a project for approved perimeter fencing/gating system. Punch Newspapers+1
Previously built fences without permit
If you built the fence without obtaining permit, you may need to regularize. Ogun State has, at times, suspended penalties or reduced penal fees to encourage people to regularize their buildings (including fences) by applying for approval retroactively. But if you don’t act within the grace period, penalties may revert. therovingpen.com.ng+3Daily Focus Nigeria+3theaffairs.ng+3

Step‑by‑Step Process for Getting Fencing Approval

Here is a typical process. Actual steps may vary depending on exact location (urban area, estate, near expressway etc.), size & nature of fence, and whether everything is in order.

Check Ownership / Title
Ensure your land ownership documents or lease/title are in order. Have legal proof that you are allowed to build fence on that land.
Obtain / Prepare Survey Plan
Engage a registered/licensed surveyor to survey the land, mark boundaries clearly. Get the survey plan properly approved/registered with the relevant authority (Surveyor General, Bureau of Lands, etc.).
Check Local Zoning / Layout
- Is your land part of a planned layout or estate?
- Is there an existing approved layout plan? If not, you may need to get layout approval.
- Check local zoning laws for your area: residential, commercial, mixed use, etc., which may affect fence design/height.
Design Your Fence
Based on regulation: determine the height, solid vs grill sections, materials, color, gates/entry, aesthetics. Where the fence will be: front, side, rear. Ensure you can meet setback requirements and rights‑of‑way constraints.
Submit Application / Development Permit
Prepare and submit all required documentation to OGPDPA / Ministry of Physical Planning & Urban Development. Documents may include:
- Survey plan
- Ownership documents
- Fence design/drawings (showing height, materials, location)
- Site plan showing building(s), fence, setbacks etc.
- Payment of required application fees or permit fees.
Review Process
The authority will check your application for compliance with regulations: height, design, visibility, safety, proximity to roads, rights‑of‑way, etc. There may be inspections. For simple applications, the review can be fast (the “7‑7‑14 permit process” is used in Ogun: simple applications should not exceed 7 days, planning information within 7 days, special applications 14 days) if all documents are in order. Daily Trust
Approval / Permit Issued
If your application is satisfactory, a permit (or planning certificate) is issued. This gives you authorization to build the fence according to the approved plan.
Build the Fence
Construct according to the approved plan. It’s wise to engage qualified contractors. Ensure the height, materials, design exactly match the approved drawings. Keep records/photos.
Inspection / Compliance Check
After or during construction, the relevant authority may inspect to ensure compliance. If there are deviations, you may be required to adjust or redo portions, or in worst cases, demolish noncompliant parts.
Maintain Permit / Renew if Needed
Some permits may have validity periods. Ensure you meet conditions, and keep the fence in good state such that it does not become a hazard, violate right‑of‑way etc.

Typical Fees, Penalties & Enforcement

Understanding the costs and possible penalties is crucial so you plan properly.

Permit / Application Fees
OGPDPA charges fees for planning permits and development permits. The exact fee will depend on location, type of fence, whether it’s “simple” or “special” application etc. If you are including fence as part of larger building plans, the costs may be part of the overall permit.
Penal / Regularization Fees
If you built without permit, you may be liable to penal fees. Ogun State has, in past, waived or slashed these fees for residential or commercial buildings to encourage compliance. For example, penal fees for residential developments were reduced by 80%, and for commercial by 60%, during some grace periods. theaffairs.ng+1
Enforcement & Sanctions
If a fence is built without approval, or violates height or setback rules, or encroaches on rights-of‑way, it may be:
1. Subject to removal/demolition by government authorities. charlesokogene.com+2The Details News+2
2. Owner may be fined.
3. Owner may lose legal protection (e.g. against encroachment by others).
4. For expressways / highways or government lands, the state may order removal and recover cost.
Delays
If application is incomplete, or missing documents, or design is noncompliant, the process can drag on. To avoid this, ensure all documents, survey, proof of ownership, design are correct from the start.

Case Examples / Precedents

Fence Height Limit Example
For residential front fences abutting roads: maximum 2,100 mm (about 2.1 m), with up to 1,200 mm solid component, topped with see‑through grill/mesh of up to 900 mm. For fences between neighbouring properties: similar total height, but with different solid vs grill proportions. Punch Newspapers+1
Expressway / Right of Way Enforcement
Along the Abeokuta‑Sagamu and Sagamu‑Lagos Expressways, the state government has enforced removal of perimeter fences, gates, etc., that encroach the 70 meter right‑of‑way or do not comply with see‑through fence design. charlesokogene.com+1
Regularization / Penal Fee Waiver Period
During World Habitat Day in 2022, Ogun State gave residents a 30‑day grace period to regularize illegal constructions without penalty. After that, penalties were restored and enforced. Daily Focus Nigeria

What Many People Overlook / Common Mistakes

Knowing what tends to go wrong will help you avoid delays or being sent back for revisions, or incurring penalties.

Poorly prepared survey plans
Unregistered or inaccurately drawn boundaries can cause disputes or rejection.
No ownership proof / unclear title
Missing title deeds, or ownership documents that are in someone else’s name, unregistered lease etc.
Deviation from approved design
After you get permit, modifying height, materials, or solid vs grill sections without approval leads to issues.
Encroaching on rights‑of‑way or road reserve
Ignoring set‑back rules or building into road reserves is a frequent cause of enforcement action.
Neglecting expressway / visibility / safety requirements
For fences along highways/expressways, the see‑through requirement is crucial. Solid walls can block visibility, hamper policing, etc.
Assuming uniform rules everywhere
Some local governments, estates, High‑Density zones etc., might have stricter rules, additional bylaws. What works in one neighborhood may not be accepted in another.
Failing to apply for permit before building
Starting construction (fence building) before getting permit is risky. Even if you plan to regularize later, penalties can be imposed, parts may be demolished, etc.

Benefits of Getting Fencing Approval

Although getting approval takes time/effort and some cost, compliance has advantages:

Legal protection for your fence and property boundary
Avoid fines, demolition, forced modifications
Better security and value of your property
Avoid conflict with neighbors or government
Compliance with insurance or safety laws (if applicable)
Contribute to orderly development, aesthetic value of your community

Conclusion

Fencing may sound simple, but in Ogun State it sits at the intersection of property law, planning law, safety, aesthetics, and community regulation. To avoid costly mistakes, delays, or worse (having your fence removed or paying fines), you must comply with the legal requirements: survey plan, ownership proof, layout or zoning rules, design (height, solid vs grill), set‑backs, rights‑of‑way, proper permit application.

Getting approval protects your investment, your property, your safety, and ensures your fence is legally recognized. If you follow the process carefully, engage the right professionals, and respect the rules, you can erect a fence that secures your land, adds to its value, and is compliant with Ogun State’s regulations

Call to Action

If you’re reading this and planning to build or have already built a fence in Ogun, here’s what you should do next:

Don’t start construction without check‑listing
Before you engage builders, ensure you have survey plan, ownership documents, layout plan (if applicable), and have checked local zoning / expressway boundary rules.
Engage a professional early
A registered surveyor, a town planner, or an architect can help ensure your design meets the rules. They can help prepare the drawings, plans, and documents properly, reducing delays and risk.
Submit the permit application properly
Go to OGPDPA or the Ministry responsible. Submit your documents correctly. Confirm what kind of permit you need (simple vs special), what fees apply. Be accurate about design and height.
Monitor the process, follow up
Be active: check whether there are objections, ensure your application is processed within time (7 days for simple, 14 for special, as per the 7‑7‑14 permit scheme). If there are conditions attached, fulfill them.
Avoid shortcuts
Do not assume that a high fence or solid fence is okay just because some neighbors have done so. What matters is what’s permitted. Using substandard materials or failing to follow permit can lead to demolition.
Regularize if you have built without permit
If your existing fence has no approval, check if there is a grace period or regularization scheme. Act quickly, or you may incur full penal fees or risk removal.
Stay informed
Regulations can change. Be aware of the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Regulations, any new regulations from the Ministry, or announcements from OGPDPA.