Anaheim Neighbor Fence Rules Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Fence-related disputes between neighbors in Anaheim are governed by California Civil Code Section 841, the Good Neighbor Fence Act of 2013, which applies statewide and supersedes any conflicting local ordinances. Under Section 841, adjoining landowners are presumed to benefit equally from a boundary fence and therefore share equally in the reasonable costs of constructing, maintaining, or replacing the fence. This presumption of equal benefit and equal cost sharing is the starting point for all boundary fence matters in Anaheim, whether between residential, commercial, or mixed-use properties. The statute applies to fences on or near the property boundary line that serve as a division between the adjoining properties.

Before beginning any new fence construction or major repair on a boundary fence, the initiating property owner must provide written notice to the adjoining property owner at least 30 days before work commences. This notice must include: a description of the problem necessitating the fence work, the proposed solution (including materials and design), an estimated total cost from at least one qualified contractor, the proposed division of costs, and the proposed timeline for the work. The adjoining owner then has 30 days to respond. If the adjoining owner agrees, both parties share the costs as negotiated. If the adjoining owner does not respond or objects, the initiating owner may proceed with the work and pursue the other owner's share through small claims court or civil litigation.

The City of Anaheim's role in fence disputes is limited to enforcing the zoning code provisions that govern fence height, materials, setbacks, and permitted locations. The Anaheim Planning Department and Code Enforcement will address complaints about fences that exceed height limits, use prohibited materials, or are located in required setback areas. However, the city does not determine property boundary locations, adjudicate cost-sharing disagreements, or mediate personal disputes between neighbors about fence style, color, or orientation. Property owners with boundary disputes should obtain a licensed surveyor's property line determination. Cost-sharing disputes under Civil Code Section 841 are resolved through direct negotiation, mediation, or small claims court (for amounts under $12,500).