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

No. Norfolk 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 Norfolk County

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

Some Restrictions

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

Key Facts

County Rule?: None: zoning bylaw enforced by each town
State Law: MGL c. 49 (legal fences, spite fences)
Barbed Wire: Prohibited residential (all towns)
Historic Districts: HDC approval required (MGL c. 40C)
Building Code: 780 CMR permit over 7 ft

Summary

Norfolk County has no fence material ordinance. Towns regulate materials via zoning bylaws. Historic districts (Brookline, Dedham, Milton) require Historic District Commission approval.

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

Section 21: Fences deemed a private nuisance; right of action. 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

Norfolk County does not regulate fence materials. Each town's zoning bylaw specifies approved residential fence materials, typically wood, vinyl, composite, wrought iron, and aluminum. Chain-link is often restricted in front yards. Barbed wire and razor wire are prohibited in residential zones across Norfolk County. MGL c. 49 defines a "legal and sufficient" fence as 4+ feet in good repair. Under MGL c. 49 §21, spite fences over 6 feet are unlawful nuisances. Norfolk County contains multiple local historic districts (Brookline's Cottage Farm, Dedham's Dedham Village, Milton's East Milton) and Historic District Commission approval is required before installing a fence visible from a public way.

Violations & Fines

No county enforcement. Municipal non-compliant materials: code enforcement notice, replacement may be required. Historic district violation: additional penalties up to $300/day under MGL c. 40C §13.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are typical penalties for violating material restrictions rules?

Most Norfolk 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 Norfolk County's municipal code or staff for the current penalty schedule.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Norfolk County

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingHeavy Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Quiet HoursFew Restrictions Animal Ordinances: Dog Leash LawsSome Restrictions Height LimitsFew Restrictions Neighbor Fence RulesSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome Restrictions Noise Ordinances: Barking DogsFew Restrictions Parking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome Restrictions

All Norfolk County rules

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

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Material Restrictions in Cities Across Norfolk County

Quincy, MA Brookline, MA Weymouth, MA