Does Bristol County, MA have its own material restrictions ordinance?

No. Bristol County, MA does not appear to have a local material restrictions ordinance, Massachusetts state law applies instead. The rules summarized on this page come from MGL c. 49 §21 (Spite Fence).

Key Facts Ordinance Text Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources More in Bristol County

Bristol County, MA Fence Regulations: Material Restrictions (2026)

Some Restrictions

Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified April 2026

Key Facts

Allowed: Wood, vinyl, wrought iron
Barbed Wire: Prohibited residential
Historic Review: MGL c. 40C
State Law: MGL c. 49

Summary

Fence materials in Bristol County cities follow local zoning bylaws. Wood, vinyl, and wrought iron are standard. Historic districts in New Bedford and Taunton require HDC approval. MGL c. 49 governs 'legal and sufficient' fences.

City-specific rules exist: New Bedford has its own material restrictions rules that differ from Bristol County's county-level regulations. If you live in New Bedford, check the city-specific page instead.

Section 21. 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: MGL c. 49 §21 (Spite Fence)View official code

Full Breakdown

Each Bristol County city sets fence-material standards through its zoning bylaw. Fall River, New Bedford, Taunton, Attleboro, and Dartmouth allow wood, vinyl, composite, wrought iron, aluminum, and chain-link in residential zones, though chain-link is often restricted in front yards. Barbed wire and razor wire are prohibited in residential zones countywide. The New Bedford Historic District (whaling-era downtown, Johnny Cake Hill) and Taunton Green Historic District require Historic District Commission review for new fences under MGL c. 40C. New Bedford and Fall River also have National Register districts with federal review triggers. MGL c. 49 §1 defines a 'legal and sufficient' fence as 4+ feet in good repair. Spite fences over 6 feet are barred by MGL c. 49 §21. Finished side must face outward per local bylaws.

Violations & Fines

Non-compliant materials: code enforcement notice and replacement order. Historic district violations under MGL c. 40C: fines up to $1,000 per offense and removal orders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are typical penalties for violating material restrictions rules?

Most Bristol County fences violations start with a written warning followed by escalating civil fines for repeat offenses. Specific dollar amounts and any criminal-misdemeanor exposure depend on the section of code; consult Bristol County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Bristol County

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Quiet HoursSome Restrictions Neighbor Fence RulesFew Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Barking DogsSome Restrictions Parking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome Restrictions Animal Ordinances: Breed RestrictionsSome Restrictions

All Bristol County rules

Compare Bristol County to another location·View the Massachusetts fence regulations overview

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Material Restrictions in Cities Across Bristol County

Fall River, MA New Bedford, MA Taunton, MA Attleboro, MA