It is your land, and you can do what you want with it— within the rules and regulations of your local zoning code of course. Anytime you install or building something on you property, it will have an impact on your neighbors, but typically your local zoning code will require you to erect it some minimum distance from your property line— but not always. Time and time again, as a land use planner and I see property owners build fences, walls and other structures on his or her property without having any regard for how it will impact the neighbors. They fail to see that the neighbor will forced to look at or deal with any negative impacts that might be created. Typically, a fence can be installed along your property line without setback requirements or permits, but it is smart to consult your neighbor first.
The Fact about Property Lines
A property line is a common division line between two people who own land right next to each other. The exact location can be found on a survey. Sometimes pins or monuments are installed in the ground to pinpoint the exact location of a corner of a property.
Furthermore, a property line is something you share with your neighbor. Don’t ever lose sight of that. Anytime you install something close to a neighbor’s property, it will have an impact on their lives.
Ask Your Neighbor To Help
Barring any local zoning regulations, that typically limit heights of feces to 6 feet without setback requirements, your neighbor can present the biggest problems when you install a fence along a property line. There are a number of issues that can rise. Your neighbor can dispute where the property line is. They can hate the style or color which can cause stress in your relationship. Hostility can rise which can be easily avoided.
Before you install your fence, run your ideas by your neighbors. Include them in your decision making process. You should agree on the location and refer to surveys or pins and monuments in the ground. Discuss the styles, materials and colors you are thinking about because they are going to have to look at it too. Discuss maintenance issues such as painting, washing or clearing weeds. Also consider moving it away a foot or two from the property line so you can maintain both sides without trespassing.
Your local zoning code will likely allow you to install a fence of a certain height along you property line. While it is ultimately your decision on what kind of fence you put up or where you put it, including your neighbors in the process will minimize potential problems with them in the future. If a six foot fence will not do and you need something taller, you will need to look at the setback requirements for your property.
