Property Line Fence Rules Every Homeowner Should Know

Fences play a significant role in defining your property line and creating privacy, safety, and curb appeal.

But before you begin a costly project, knowing property line fence rules for placement, height, and construction is critical.

Not being aware of these rules could lead to disputes with neighbors or your city or county, potentially causing delays and additional costs.

Property lines

Don’t guess; be absolutely certain where your property lines are. If you aren’t sure, examine your deed or contact a local land surveyor to establish your exact boundaries.

Understanding property line fence rules will save you from tearing down a new fence or costly litigation for the misplacement of your fence.

Height regulations

Most cities, towns, and neighborhoods have fence height regulations. It is always best to consult your local laws, but common guidelines include:

Front yard fences: To maintain visual appeal and avoid decreased visibility, front yard fences are usually limited to 3 to 4 feet.

This height offers the perfect balance between providing a sense of property boundary and maintaining visual appeal by not blocking your home’s curb appeal.

Side and backyard fences: In most cases, these fences are allowed to be taller to create a property line boundary and for privacy and safety.

The typical height range for side yard fences is 3 to 6 feet. The height you pick depends on your desire, whether it be a visual barrier or to define your property line.

Backyard fences are generally 6 to 8 feet in height, which is standard for most residential areas. However, if you are trying to keep children or pets safe, going up to 8 feet is often a better option.

HOA restrictions: If you have a homeowner’s association, always consult them for fence height requirements, style, and color guidelines.

Fence placement-property line fence rules

Property line: In the best-case scenario, your fence should be built entirely on your property.

If this isn’t feasible because of existing structures or the contour of your lot, make sure your neighbor approves your plan and get it in writing.

Shared fences: If your fence will be shared with your neighbors, both parties should contribute to the cost of building the fence and regular maintenance.

Setbacks: If you live in an area with setback requirements, know the law.

A setback means that your fence must be a certain distance from your property line or the street. This is often because of visibility issues, but not always.

Know your local laws, get the proper permits, and make sure the fence material you choose is acceptable in your area.

To avoid problems with your neighbors, discuss your fencing plans to prevent misunderstandings or potential disputes.

A trusted fence company like Premier Fence will help avoid property fence line disputes. They understand local laws and can offer the proper permitting and guidelines to build a fence you will love!

Peace of mind and quality workmanship—all with a company you can trust. Schedule a free estimate today!