Although the Building Department does not currently issue permits for the installation of fences, there are rules and regulations regarding fencing. We recommend that before installing a fence, you know where your property line is. If you need help in this matter, you must call a professional to survey your land.
Do you need a permit to install a fence in Massachusetts?
A fence up to six feet in height may be located on or close to a lot line. No building permit is required. However, a fence cannot obstruct views on corner lots. To construct a fence over six feet in height, you are required to obtain a building permit.
Do you need a permit to put a fence around your property?
You may need to obtain a permit before you’re able to build a fence on your property. The height of your potential fence, the location of your property, and where on the property the fence is set to be built will determine if a permit is necessary.
How close to the property line can I build a fence?
How Close To The Property Line Can I Build? Fences are typically built between 2 and 8 inches from the line between properties. Some areas will allow the building of fences directly on the property line, but in this case, you’ll have to cooperate with your neighbor and potentially share the cost of the fence.
How close to the property line can I build a garage in Massachusetts?
A detached garage must be located a minimum of five (5) feet from the side and rear property lines, a minimum of ten (10) feet from the principal structure on the same lot, and must be a maximum of 1 story in height.
Can I put a fence on my property line in Massachusetts?
There is no single law that states how close to a property line a property owner may build a fence. Local regulations may differ according to neighborhood.
What is the legal requirement of a fence?
Are there any legal rules and regulations I need to consider? In the UK, the norm is that fencing in your back garden should be a maximum height of 2 metres (about 6.5 feet) and the front garden of your property should be 1 metre (3.2 feet).
Can my Neighbour put up a 6 foot fence?
The simple answer is: yes, as long as you receive their express permission. Without your neighbour’s permission, hanging plants, painting, or leaning something against their fence that causes damage can land you in trouble. In fact, you could be charged for criminal damage.
Can I put a fence around my yard?
Fence Laws In California: A Quick Overview
For a front yard fence, the maximum height is 42 inches. For a backyard fence, the maximum height is 72 inches. If you’re sharing a fence with a neighbor, your fence must be a minimum of 60 inches high and be free of gaps that a small child might pass through.
How tall can I make my fence?
Most commonly, residential fences are limited to a maximum height of six feet in the backyard and four feet in the front yard.
What is the 7 year boundary rule?
The Seven Year Rule
So this is different from the so called ‘Seven year rule’ which comes from Section 157(4) of the Planning and Development Act 2000. This means local authorities can’t serve enforcement notices for an unauthorised development when seven years have passed since the commencement of the development.
Can I put up a fence next to my neighbors fence?
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.
Can my Neighbour build right to my boundary?
The short answer is “yes, subject to serving a valid notice and following the processes set out in The Party Wall Act. The party wall act only applies to “structures” (ie: a wall with a foundation), it does not apply to timber fences or other screens.
What size shed can I build without a permit in Massachusetts?
200 square feet
Sheds under 200 square feet in size do not require a permit. Any structure in excess of 200 square feet will require a building permit. Additionally, the Massachusetts State Building Code (CMR 780) requires that any structure over 600 square feet require footings.
Can a homeowner pull a building permit in MA?
Massachusetts homeowners are allowed to obtain their own building permit for renovations and improvements to their homes. Obtaining your own building permit comes with significant responsibility and risk.
How close can a shed be to the property line in Massachusetts?
20 ft
Setbacks should be 20 ft from the front property line, 10-ft from the side and 10-ft from the rear and 10-ft from the principal structure. Note: Sheds larger than 300 sq ft must meet new zoning requirements.
What is the legal height of a fence in Massachusetts?
A fence or other structure in the nature of a fence which unnecessarily exceeds six feet in height and is maliciously erected or maintained for the purpose of annoying the owners or occupants of adjoining property shall be deemed a private nuisance.
Whats the highest fence you can have?
What is the maximum height for a garden fence? As a general rule of thumb, fencing in your back garden should be no taller than 2 metres high (or about 6.5 feet tall).
What is the law on boundary fences?
The rules are that fence posts must be on the owner’s side of the boundary. However, there is no law that states the smooth side must face either way. It is entirely up to the owner which way the fence will face.
How big can a fence be without planning permission?
Planning permission is generally required if the fence is higher than 2 metres – and potentially as low as 1 metre if the fence is by a road. You can also apply for retroactive planning permission, if your fence accidentally exceeds regulations, or if another person can raise reasonable objections.
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.