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Fall River, MA Fence Regulations: Height Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Spite Fence Law
MGL Ch. 49 §21: max 6 ft if malicious
Pool Fence (near lot line)
6 ft concealing fence if within 10 ft
General Standard
No specific local height cap in code
Building Exclusion
Fences excluded from building definition

Summary

Fall River follows Massachusetts state law for fence height regulation. MGL Ch. 49 §21 addresses spite fences, prohibiting maliciously erected fences over 6 feet. The city's zoning code Ch. 86 excludes fences from the building definition. Pool fences near property lines must be at least 6 feet if within 10 feet of a lot line.

A fence or other structure in the nature of a fence which unnecessarily exceeds six feet in height and is maliciously erected or maintained for the purpose of annoying the owners or occupants of adjoining property shall be deemed a private nuisance. Any such owner or occupant injured in the comfort or enjoyment of his estate thereby may have an action of tort for damages under chapter two hundred and forty-three.

Source: Municode Library - Fall RiverView official code

Full Breakdown

Fall River zoning bylaw regulates fence heights by yard location. Front yard fences limited to 3.5 to 4 feet. Corner lots have visibility requirements. Massachusetts spite fence law (MGL c.49 §21) prohibits fences over 6 feet erected maliciously to annoy neighbors. Taller fences require a variance from the zoning board of appeals. MA Zoning Act (MGL c.40A) grants municipalities zoning authority.

Violations & Fines

Code enforcement notice with correction period. Remove or modify non-compliant fence. Fines if not corrected.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall can my fence be in Fall River?
Fall River follows Massachusetts state law for fence height regulation. MGL Ch. 49 §21 addresses spite fences, prohibiting maliciously erected fences over 6 feet. The city's zoning code Ch. 86 excludes fences from the building definition. Pool fences near property lines must be at least 6 feet...
What is the maximum fence height for front yards in Fall River?
Spite Fence Law: MGL Ch. 49 §21, max 6 ft if malicious. Pool Fence (near lot line): 6 ft concealing fence if within 10 ft. General Standard: No specific local height cap in code. Building Exclusion: Fences excluded from building definition.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Fall River

Parking Rules: RV & Boat ParkingSome RestrictionsNeighbor Fence RulesFew RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Snow Removal Parking RulesSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree TrimmingSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: CompostingLight Restrictions

All Fall River rules

How Fall River compares: Cities That Allow the Tallest Residential Fences·Compare Fall River to another location·View the Massachusetts fence regulations overview

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