Fences and Neighbors FAQ

Questions:

• How high can I build a fence on my property?
• My neighbor is building a fence that violates the local fence law, but nothing's happening. How can I get the law enforced?
• My neighbor's fence is hideous. Can I do anything about it?
• The fence on the line between my land and my neighbor's is in bad shape. Can I fix it or tear it down?
• What is a boundary fence?
• Who is responsible for repairing and maintaining a boundary fence?
• Where can I find more information about fences?

Answer:

Who is responsible for repairing and maintaining a boundary fence?

Unless boundary fence owners agree otherwise, both owners are responsible for keeping the fence in good repair. However, the fence owners may agree to a different arrangement. For example, one neighbor might want to be responsible for repairing the fence, perhaps because she has a dog and is more interested in keeping the fence. Agreements between neighbors about boundary fences are only enforceable between current neighbors. When a new owner comes into the picture, the old agreement is no longer in force.