Neighbor Fence Rules: Elfin Forest vs San Diego

Does my neighbor have to pay half for a new fence?

Under California's Good Neighbor Fence Act, adjoining landowners are presumed to share equally in the cost of maintaining or replacing a boundary fence that benefits both properties. You must provide 30 days' written notice before starting work.

What if my neighbor refuses to pay their share?

You can seek resolution through mediation or file a claim in small claims court. Document the condition of the fence, your written notice, and the neighbor's response.

Which side of the fence faces the neighbor?

The county code does not mandate which side faces outward. This is typically agreed upon by the neighbors. The finished side is customarily faced outward as a matter of courtesy.

Who pays for a shared fence in San Diego?

Under California's Good Neighbor Fence Act (Civil Code 841), adjoining landowners are presumed equally responsible for reasonable costs of boundary fence construction, maintenance, and replacement.

Does my neighbor have to agree before I build a fence?

You must give 30 days written notice with the proposed work, cost, and timeline. If they don't respond or refuse, you may still build it and seek their share of costs through small claims court.