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Fame Shock News

can my neighbor build a fence on the property line

Author

Charlotte Adams

Updated on June 29, 2026

Check Rules and Regulations

Typically, fences are installed anywhere from 2 to 8 inches from a property line in most areas. Some areas might allow to go right up to a property line, especially if you live in an urban row house where every inch makes a difference!

Can I put a fence up next to my Neighbours?

Yes. Yes, you can build next to your neighbour’s fence. As long as you’re inside your property line you’re fine. One consideration: your posts might have to be staggered relative to the fence posts of the existing fence.

Do I need a permit to put a fence around my yard?

In most cases, if you add an outdoor structure such as a fence, you need a permit. However, it specifically depends on the codes, zoning and regulations of where you live. In some cases, you may not need a permit but you must adhere to the local regulations regarding height limits and specific fence materials.

How close to a property line can I build?

The exact amount a building needs to be set back from the property line will vary from one location to another. However, the required setback on the side is typically between 5 – 10 feet, while the front and back require around 10 – 20 feet at a minimum.

How close can I build to my Neighbours boundary?

As a rule of thumb, a build that reaches 7.2 feet is considered acceptable and anything over that we do recommend speaking to your neighbour.

Where do fence posts go on a boundary?

Customers having new fencing installed often ask us exactly where they should position their new fence. Getting it right avoids (potentially costly) disputes over encroachment in the future. As a rule of thumb, the outer face of the fence should be placed along the boundary. The posts should stand on your land.

Can I attach a fence to my Neighbours fence?

The short answer to this question is, of course, “no”. If you own the fence and you have not granted your neighbour permission to do so, they are not allowed to attach or nail things to your fence.

What is a hate fence?

Primary tabs. A spite fence is a fence (whether a division fence or otherwise) built maliciously, with the sole purpose or intent of annoying, injuring, or spiting an adjoining owner (commonly a neighbor). For example, a spite fence might block the neighbor’s view or obstruct the passage and enjoyment of light or air.

What is the maximum height of a boundary fence?

The laws actually state that a fence can be as high as 100 meters. However, this is only allowed if proper planning permits have been obtained. This means that any fence under 2 meters in height does not require a permit. This simple law has a few complications to it.

Who gets the good side of the fence?

The finished side should face toward your neighbor. Not only is this more polite, but it’s the standard. Your property will look a lot nicer with the “good” side facing the outside world. Otherwise, your fence will look like it was installed backward.

Can I put up my own fence?

Installing a fence by yourself doesn’t come without problems. While you might save on the monetary labor costs that would go to a company, you’ll be spending your own time to install the fence. Bear in mind that most fence installers have teams of multiple people which helps make the process go faster.

Can you build right up to the boundary?

The party wall act allows an absolute right to build up to the boundary between you and your neighbour. It also allows you to build astride the boundary line, but only with your neighbour’s consent.

Can I build a shed next to my Neighbours fence?

In some areas, you are allowed to build as close as four feet away from your property line. In other places, your LPA may ask you to keep your shed 10-15 feet away from your fence. But generally, you need to maintain at least 5 feet between the further edge of your shed and the fence.

How close to property line can I build a patio?

The California Building Code requires that the minimum distance from property line to the proposed patio cover shall be 5 feet.

Can my Neighbour build an extension on the boundary line?

If you wish to build a wall astride the boundary, you are required to obtain the adjoining owner’s consent. The adjoining owner has 14 days to give written consent.

Do you have to allow Neighbour access to my property?

Generally, if you go onto your neighbour’s land without their permission, you are trespassing. However, if you need to repair your home and to do so need access via your neighbour’s land, you may go onto your neighbour’s land without getting their permission.

What is the 7 year boundary rule?

Some believe that there is a 7-year limit on adverse possession, meaning that a squatter can take ownership of land after they have been using that land without the owner’s permission for a certain amount of time.