CA Good Neighbor Fence Act (Civil Code 841) applies in unincorporated LA County. Adjoining property owners share boundary fence costs equally. The spite fence doctrine (CC 841.4) applies to fences over 10 ft built to annoy neighbors. Hedges serving as fences are subject to the same height restrictions.
California's Good Neighbor Fence Act (Civil Code 841) applies in unincorporated LA County and presumes that adjoining landowners benefit equally from a boundary fence. Both neighbors share equal responsibility for maintaining or replacing a boundary fence. A property owner planning to build or replace a boundary fence must give the neighbor 30 days written notice including a description of the project and estimated cost. If the neighbor doesn't respond within 30 days, they are presumed to have agreed. Disputes can be resolved through mediation or small claims court.
The Good Neighbor Fence Act is a civil matter, not a criminal one. A neighbor who refuses to pay their share can be sued in small claims court for up to $12,500. The county does not enforce fence-sharing disputes. If a neighbor builds a spite fence (over 10 feet, built to annoy), it can be declared a private nuisance under Civil Code 841.4 and ordered removed.
Altadena, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
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