Height Limits: New Bedford vs Somerset
How do height limits rules compare between New Bedford, MA and Somerset, MA?
New Bedford and Somerset have similar restriction levels.
New Bedford, MA
Bristol County
New Bedford follows Massachusetts state law for fence height. MGL Ch. 49 §21 prohibits spite fences over 6 feet erected maliciously. The city's zoning ordinance Chapter 9 may contain additional fence requirements for specific districts. Pool fences must comply with 780 CMR barrier standards.
View full New Bedford rules →Somerset, MA
Bristol County
Somerset's Zoning By-Law governs fence height. Boundary walls and fences over six (6) feet in height trigger zoning-review requirements. Corner-lot visibility rules prohibit any planting, fence, structure, or wall between 3 and 8 feet above street elevation within the sight triangle at intersections. Massachusetts spite-fence law (MGL c.49 §21) also applies.
View full Somerset rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | New Bedford | Somerset |
|---|---|---|
| Spite Fence | MGL Ch. 49 §21 — max 6 ft if malicious | - |
| Permit Required | Yes — $30 fence permit | - |
| Pool Fences | 48-inch minimum per 780 CMR | - |
| Zoning | Ch. 9 district requirements may apply | - |
| Code Reference | - | Town of Somerset Zoning By-Law |
| Permit Trigger | - | Over 6 feet in height |
| Corner Visibility | - | 3-8 ft clear within sight triangle |
| Spite Fence Law | - | MGL c.49 §21 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
New Bedford FAQ
How tall can my fence be in New Bedford?
New Bedford follows Massachusetts state law for fence height. MGL Ch. 49 §21 prohibits spite fences over 6 feet erected maliciously. The city's zoning ordinance Chapter 9 may contain additional fence requirements for specific districts. Pool fences must comply with 780 CMR barrier standards.
What is the maximum fence height for front yards in New Bedford?
Spite Fence: MGL Ch. 49 §21 — max 6 ft if malicious. Permit Required: Yes — $30 fence permit. Pool Fences: 48-inch minimum per 780 CMR. Zoning: Ch. 9 district requirements may apply.
Somerset FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Somerset, MA?
Fences up to 6 feet are generally allowed as a customary yard accessory. Anything over 6 feet triggers zoning review and a building permit under the Town of Somerset Zoning By-Law.
Are there extra rules for corner lots in Somerset?
Yes. The Zoning By-Law prohibits any planting, fence, structure, or wall between 3 and 8 feet above the street elevation within the intersection sight triangle — this keeps drivers' sightlines clear.
Compare other topics
See how New Bedford and Somerset compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool