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Did you know? Fence Fact



Thomas Fence serving Prince Georges County brings you …Did you know? Fence Fact

Fences can provide privacy and transform backyards into calming places to relax and unwind. But fences also may lead to disputes with neighbors if installation is not carried out with etiquette. Always place the fence within your property lines, which can be determined by examining a land survey for your home. Inform your neighbors of your intention to erect a fence, and give any concerns they might have substantial consideration. Face the more aesthetically appealing side of the fence outward to the street and to neighbors’ yards. In addition, maintain the fence once it is installed so it does not become a neighborhood eyesore that irks your neighbors.


Fence Etiquette: Does the More Appealing Side Need to Face Your Neighbor's Yard?


When installing a fence between properties, homeowners often wonder about the proper placement of the more visually appealing side. Should it face their own yard, or should it face their neighbor's yard? In this article, we will explore the considerations and etiquette surrounding fence placement, helping homeowners navigate this common dilemma while maintaining positive neighborly relations.


  1. Understanding Fence Ownership and Shared Boundaries: Before delving into the aesthetics of fence placement, it is crucial to establish a clear understanding of property boundaries and ownership. Review property surveys or consult legal documents to determine the exact boundaries between your property and your neighbor's. This will ensure that the fence is installed in the correct location and avoids any potential disputes in the future.
  2. Local Regulations and Homeowner's Associations: In some areas, there may be local regulations or homeowner's association guidelines that dictate the placement and appearance of fences. It is important to research and adhere to these rules to avoid any legal or community-related complications. Familiarize yourself with any height restrictions, materials restrictions, or specific guidelines regarding which side of the fence should face outward.
  3. Fence Placement Considerations: When deciding which side of the fence should face your neighbor's yard, there are several factors to consider:
  4. a. Aesthetics: If the fence is more visually appealing on one side, it is often considered courteous to face that side towards your neighbor's yard. This gesture demonstrates respect for their view and enhances the overall appearance of the neighborhood.
  5. b. Privacy and Security: Consider the primary purpose of the fence. If it primarily serves as a privacy or security barrier for your own property, it may make practical sense to face the more appealing side inward, towards your own yard. This ensures that you benefit from the enhanced aesthetic while still maintaining your desired level of privacy and security.
  6. c. Shared Costs and Agreements: If you and your neighbor are sharing the cost of the fence or have reached a mutual agreement on its installation, it is crucial to discuss and decide together which side should face each yard. Open communication and mutual understanding can help avoid potential conflicts and foster positive neighborly relationships.
  7. Open Communication and Mutual Agreement: To prevent misunderstandings or conflicts, it is recommended to communicate openly with your neighbor regarding the placement of the fence. Discuss your intentions, listen to their input, and try to reach a mutual agreement that satisfies both parties. This collaborative approach can ensure that everyone's needs and preferences are considered.
  8. Respecting Individual Preferences: Ultimately, fence placement is a matter of personal preference and should be approached with respect for both your own desires and those of your neighbor. While there may be cultural norms or local customs to consider, the decision should be based on a mutual understanding and consideration of each other's viewpoints.



While there may not be a strict rule dictating whether the more appealing side of a fence should face your neighbor's yard, it is generally considered neighborly and aesthetically pleasing to do so. However, factors such as privacy, security, and shared agreements should also be taken into account. Open communication, mutual understanding, and respect for each other's preferences are key to maintaining positive relationships with your neighbors while making decisions about fence placement.



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