Neighbor Fence Rules: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do neighbor fence rules rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Massachusetts Fence Law (MGL Chapter 49) governs boundary fence disputes; Cambridge adds local spite-fence protections under MGL c.140 s.162 prohibiting malicious 6-foot-plus fences.
View full Cambridge rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 49 governs partition fences between neighbors, and Somerville follows the state rule that the finished side faces the neighbor's property.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| State Fence Law | MGL Chapter 49 | - |
| Spite Fence | MGL c.140 s.162 (6+ ft malicious) | - |
| Neighbor Consent | Not required if on your land | - |
| Boundary Fences | Require agreement | - |
| Finished Side | Custom: outward | - |
| Governing law | - | MGL Chapter 49 |
| Finished side | - | Faces neighbor |
| Spite fence rule | - | MGL c.49 s.21 |
| Cost-sharing disputes | - | Board of Fence Viewers |
| Shared fence | - | Requires written agreement |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Can my Cambridge neighbor force me to share fence costs?
Only if the fence is a shared boundary fence under MGL c.49 procedures. Fences wholly on your land remain your responsibility.
What is a spite fence and what can I do about one?
A malicious fence over 6 feet built to annoy a neighbor; you can sue under MGL c.140 s.162 for removal and damages.
Somerville FAQ
Do I have to share fence costs?
Under MGL c.49 cost-sharing is possible between abutting owners of improved land; in practice most Somerville neighbors negotiate informally.
What is a spite fence?
Any fence over 6 feet built to annoy a neighbor with no legitimate use; Massachusetts law allows it to be declared a private nuisance.
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