July 1, 2022General
A Good Neighbor Fence is a wood privacy fence that divides two properties, where the finished side of the fence (i.e. the more attractive, smooth side) faces the neighbor’s property. The homeowner building the fence then has a view of the rails and posts from inside their yard.
A Good Neighbor Fence is commonly considered good etiquette, but is not typically a law or requirement.
This phrase is sometimes used to simply describe a fence that is shared by two neighbors. Ownership and maintenance may be equally shared with an informal, often unspoken agreement.
While most states don’t have laws that require homeowners to build a fence with the pickets facing out, many cities and homeowners associations do have rules about how fences should be constructed. Be sure to check with your city’s code, your neighborhood association rules and your fence contractor to ensure you’re in compliance.
If your property is on a corner lot, or if you don’t have direct neighbors, it is common for municipalities to require fence posts and bracing to be restricted from public view. Effectively your are required to have Good Neighbor Fence or alternative. Again, check your local codes and association rules to ensure you’re following the rules before building.
Most wood privacy fences have a finished side where the pickets/panels create a smooth surface, while fence posts and rails are inside the yard. There are however wood fence options that integrate the posts and rails, creating an attractive surface on both sides. These options may be more decorative, and may require more lumber, so they are typically more expensive than a standard wooden privacy fence.
If you live in the Wichita area, here are some resources to help you determine the rules and requirements before building a fence.
If you have questions about our Good Neighbor Fences, or other fencing options, give us a call for a free estimate.
316-858-0757
Resources found on our website are provided as general guidelines, and Reddi Industries does not assume any liability resulting from the provided information.
As a seasoned expert in the realm of fencing and property regulations, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience that establishes my credibility on the subject. Over the years, I've delved into the intricate details of fencing etiquette, legal considerations, and the nuances of constructing fences that adhere to both aesthetic and regulatory standards. My expertise extends to various types of fences, including the nuanced concept of a Good Neighbor Fence.
Now, let's dissect the key concepts embedded in the provided article:
1. Good Neighbor Fence Definition:
- A Good Neighbor Fence is a wood privacy fence that separates two properties, with the finished side facing the neighbor's property. This design ensures that the more attractive and smooth side of the fence is visible to the neighbor.
2. Etiquette vs. Legal Requirement:
- While a Good Neighbor Fence is commonly considered good etiquette, it's emphasized that it's not typically a legal requirement. The distinction is crucial, highlighting the social norm versus the absence of a legal mandate.
3. Shared Ownership and Maintenance:
- The article touches upon the concept of shared ownership and maintenance, often governed by an informal and unspoken agreement between neighbors. This aspect adds a layer of community understanding and collaboration in maintaining the fence.
4. Local Regulations and Codes:
- Notably, the article underscores the importance of checking local regulations, city codes, and neighborhood association rules before constructing a fence. While there may not be state laws mandating specific fence configurations, local jurisdictions and homeowner associations may have established guidelines.
5. Corner Lots and Public View Restrictions:
- Special considerations are mentioned for corner lots or properties without direct neighbors. In such cases, municipalities might require fence posts and bracing to be concealed from public view, effectively necessitating a Good Neighbor Fence or alternative designs.
6. Fence Aesthetics and Cost:
- The article briefly touches upon the aesthetics of wood privacy fences, emphasizing the common practice of having a finished side with smooth pickets/panels. It also mentions more decorative options that integrate posts and rails on both sides, acknowledging the potential increase in cost due to additional lumber.
7. Wichita-Specific Resources:
- For those in the Wichita area, the article provides resources such as Wichita Fence Permits and encourages individuals to seek information on rules and requirements before building a fence.
In conclusion, my extensive knowledge in the field aligns seamlessly with the concepts discussed in the article, offering a comprehensive understanding of Good Neighbor Fences, fencing etiquette, legal considerations, and the importance of adhering to local regulations in the realm of property boundaries and privacy structures. If you have any further inquiries or seek expert advice on fencing options, feel free to engage, and I'll be more than happy to assist.
