Height Limits: Somerset vs Taunton
How do height limits rules compare between Somerset, MA and Taunton, MA?
Taunton has fewer restrictions than Somerset.
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 →Taunton, MA
Bristol County
Taunton's zoning ordinance Chapter 440 defines fences of 7 feet or less as not constituting a 'building,' meaning they are generally exempt from building regulations. Fences over 7 feet would be treated as structures requiring additional review. MGL Ch. 49 §21 prohibits spite fences over 6 feet if built maliciously.
View full Taunton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerset | Taunton |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Zoning Definition | - | Fences ≤7 ft excluded from 'building' |
| Spite Fence | - | MGL Ch. 49 §21 — max 6 ft if malicious |
| Over 7 Feet | - | Treated as structure — additional review |
| Permit | - | Required per city FAQ |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Taunton FAQ
How tall can my fence be in Taunton?
Taunton's zoning ordinance Chapter 440 defines fences of 7 feet or less as not constituting a 'building,' meaning they are generally exempt from building regulations. Fences over 7 feet would be treated as structures requiring additional review. MGL Ch. 49 §21 prohibits spite fences over 6 feet...
What is the maximum fence height for front yards in Taunton?
Zoning Definition: Fences ≤7 ft excluded from 'building'. Spite Fence: MGL Ch. 49 §21 — max 6 ft if malicious. Over 7 Feet: Treated as structure — additional review. Permit: Required per city FAQ.
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