Revere's Fence Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles fence regulations a little differently. In Revere, Massachusetts, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Height Limits

Fence height limits in Revere are set by the Zoning Ordinance, Title 17 (Ch. 17.24 Dimensional Regulations). Typical residential limits: 4 ft front yard, 6 ft side/rear yard. Building Division provides a fence/shed guide. Site Plan Review Committee reviews plans.

Key details: Front Yard: Max 4 ft (typical per Zoning Title 17). Rear/Side Yard: Max 6 ft (typical). Permit: Required for fences over 7 ft (780 CMR). Review: Site Plan Review Committee (Tues 10 AM).

Building without a permit for fences over 7 feet results in code enforcement. Zoning violations require modification or removal. Spite fences adjudicated in civil court.

Neighbor Fence Rules

Massachusetts has a spite fence statute (MGL c.49 §21) but no shared fence cost law. Each owner is responsible for their own fence.

Key details: Cost Split: No MA requirement. Responsibility: Each owner, own fence. Spite Fence: MGL c.49 §21. Disputes: Court / small claims.

Spite fence: civil action for damages + injunction (MGL c.49 §21). Property line encroachment: civil suit. Small claims for disputes under $7,000.

The Bottom Line

Revere's fence regulations rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Revere is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Revere can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.