Fence Requirements: Arlington vs Cambridge
How do fence requirements rules compare between Arlington, MA and Cambridge, MA?
Arlington and Cambridge have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, MA
Middlesex County
Fence construction requirements in Middlesex County vary by municipality. Most towns cap residential fences at 6 feet in side/rear yards and 4 feet in front yards under local zoning bylaws.
View full Arlington rules →Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge requires fences to be structurally sound, maintained, and comply with zoning setbacks; the finished side conventionally faces neighbors and historic districts have additional design review.
View full Cambridge rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Cambridge |
|---|---|---|
| Front Yard Max | Typically 4 ft | - |
| Side/Rear Max | Typically 6 ft | - |
| State Permit Trigger | Over 6 ft 6 in | - |
| Barbed Wire | Prohibited in residential | Prohibited in residential |
| Authority | Local zoning bylaw | - |
| Frost Line Depth | - | 48 inches |
| Finished Side | - | Faces neighbor (custom) |
| Maintenance | - | Required under Ch. 8.20 |
| Historic District | - | Design review required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
How tall can a fence be in Middlesex County?
Most towns allow 6 ft in side and rear yards and 4 ft in front yards. Check your local zoning bylaw for exact limits.
Which side of the fence faces the neighbor?
Most Middlesex municipalities require the finished (smooth) side to face the neighbor or public way under local bylaw.
Cambridge FAQ
Can I install an electric fence in Cambridge?
No, except for agricultural livestock containment. Since most livestock are banned in Cambridge, electric fences are effectively prohibited.
Do I have to face the good side of my fence toward my neighbor?
It is customary and strongly encouraged, but Cambridge zoning does not explicitly require it. Historic districts may dictate design.
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