You're in D.C.? And think you can get away with building something without permits or codes? Not gonna happen. Unless you have a lot of acreage AND nice neighbors, you're gonna run into a whole mess of hassle. $1000 won't even cover the permitting expenses.
Here in Austin, which is admittedly pretty draconian, ANYTHING over 200 sqft requires a permit. Fences under 6' are okay as long as they're within (or on) the property line. And there's setback limitations regardless; 'accessory' structures can be five feet from the property line, whereas permanent structures must be ten. How do I know all this? I recently had to move a 6'x8' garden shed four feet back from my property line, because my neighbor complained she didn't have enough room to bring a house (yes, a house) through the alley. So it really chapped her when I built a wood and metal fence (with 6x6 posts set in concrete in jackhammered post holes; another fun story) right on the property line. Fixed her wagon but good. She has a history of, uh, irrational thought processes, and this is not the first time she's ratted me out for something silly, so I don't feel the least remorse about wrecking her plans. Her place is an eyesore also; the fence was mostly to block the view of her mess.
The setback rules are fairly standard, because they're based on access for emergency personnel such as firemen. Before you start setting posts you better check into the local requirements. You may be able to get around most of them, but if even one neighbor squawks about it you'll be SOL.
Good Luck!
c.
