How Close to a Property Line Can People Build a Fence?

When it comes to building a fence, the question often arises: how close to a property line can one build a fence? As a former fence contractor, I can share some insights based on my experiences and local regulations.

General Guidelines and Local Regulations

The distance you can build a fence from a property line varies depending on local regulations, but it typically ranges from 2 to 6 inches or a few feet. However, to get a precise understanding, it's essential to check your local zoning laws or HOA rules. Zoning laws and homeowner association (HOA) regulations can significantly impact where you can place your fence.

Specific Community Regulations

My town used to have a 15-foot setback for any structure, but fences could get a Special Exception to be placed up to the property line. Hearing many such Special Exceptions (SEs) while serving on the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA), I understood the burden on property owners. To address this, we worked with the town planner to amend the zoning ordinance. This amendment was placed before the Planning Board, and then a near-unanimous vote at the Town Meeting allowed for six-foot fences to be built up to one foot from the property line by permit only.

Checking Your Local Building Codes

Building codes play a crucial role in determining how close a fence can be to a property line. While some places permit building right on the property line with mutual agreement, others require a set-back. Therefore, it's essential to check your local building codes to fully understand the regulations.

A good rule of thumb is to build the fence approximately 4 inches from the property line. Technically, a fence can be built right on the dividing line, but for peace of mind and potential maintenance issues, leaving 3 to 4 inches can be a safer option.

City-Specific Ordinances and Maintenance

In my city, the ordinance mandates that a fence shall face the property line and undergo a completion inspection by the code inspector for the permit to be completed. If you have the surveyed property line in sight and are confident in your skills or your contractor's, you can build the fence right up to an inch from the line. If, like myself, you prefer maintaining that side yourself, you might consider building the fence a mower's width inside the line.

Conclusion

Building a fence too close to a property line can lead to disputes and legal issues, especially if local regulations are not followed. Always ensure you comply with your local zoning laws, building codes, and HOA rules. Consulting with a local zoning official or architect can provide further clarity and guidance tailored to your specific community.