Basic Fence Rules Every Homeowner Should Know in 2023
Like the old expression says, “good fences make good neighbors.” But a bad fence can make for one big headache, driving down the property value of your home and causing squabbles with your neighbors.
Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about shared fence rules. The experts here at Smucker Fencing have written this guide to walk you through the process, so that you can get on your neighbor’s good side and obey your local fencing regulations.
Read on for more info on the basics of privacy fence rules or contact Smucker Fencing online now to install your new fence today.
Privacy Fence Rules and How They Impact You
Fencing regulations help neighbors keep peace and enjoy privacy. Every state, city, and county has a unique set of privacy line fence rules to keep things organized locally.
If you’d like to learn about the specific rules in your area, you should start with the city or county planning and permit department. Typically, most rules cover the same type of regulations, from fence height to property line fence rules.
Shared Fence Rules 101
A privacy fence is a key way to keep pets and small children safe, maintain your privacy, and establish property boundaries. It’s also a positive way to have boundaries with your neighbors. The government understands the importance of fences, so general common-sense fencing regulations have developed over time to help.
Although every region is unique, here are some of the general rules that tend to be true in many areas:
- Property line fence rules: In the majority of cases, you can build a fence directly on a property line that you share with your neighbor as long as you are in agreement. Even if you build a fence a few inches or feet within your property, you will still be required to follow these rules.
- Shared expenses regulations: If you want to buy a fence on a property line and want to pay for it yourself, you don’t have to get compensation from your neighbor. But paying for the fence doesn’t give you ownership of the fence or control over your neighbor’s rights. If you’d like compensation for the fence, in most cases, it’s required that both neighbors pay for half of the cost and maintenance of the fence.
- Fence height rules: Typically, six feet is the maximum height for a shared fence unless the fence is in your front yard or within 15 feet of a street curb.
If you’d like to report a structure that’s outside the shared fence rules, you can anonymously contact your local planning and permitting department. Usually, a city will only do something about a fence in violation if someone makes a report. If you should fall into violation for your fence, the city will send a written notice to your home stating that you must lower the fence or move it back within a time range of 30 to 60 days.
Even when you follow the letter of the law, it’s important to remember that you should always consider your neighbor’s thoughts and feelings when enjoying your shared space. A high-quality fence from Smucker Fencing can help you to beautify your property and please your neighbors with a luxurious appearance.
Contact Smucker Fencing Today for a Custom Quote on Fencing Installation Services
Smucker Fencing is one of the top fencing companies in Lancaster and Chester County, with over 12 years of experience.
Our team has over a dozen experienced fence installation experts who will work to install your premium aluminum, vinyl, or wood fence in a timely matter, from phone call consultation to final installation.
Ready to construct your dream fence? Smucker Fencing is standing by and ready to help you build a fence that will wow your neighbors and upgrade your property while remaining compliant with property line fence rules. Contact us online now to request a quote or schedule a service.
John Smucker leads Smucker Fencing with over 20 years of experience in the residential fence installation niche. Since 2006, he has built the company from the ground up. His firm is family-owned and values high-quality workmanship. John and his team commit to complete customer satisfaction.