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Annapolis, MD Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)

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

Key Facts

Placement limit
Up to, not over, the line
Responsibility
Owner confirms correct placement
Disputes
Between abutting owners only
City liability
None for line disputes
Permit needed
Yes, under § 17.34.010

Summary

Annapolis lets you build a fence or wall right up to the property line but not over it. Placement responsibility falls entirely on the owner, and boundary disputes are strictly between neighbors: the City won't get involved.

2.Property Lines.a.Fences and walls may be installed up to, but not over, the property line.b.It is the property owner's responsibility to ensure that the proposed fence or wall is not installed on the property of others.c.All property line disputes are between abutting property owners, and they shall not seek or have any remedy against the City.

Source: Annapolis City Code § 21.60.070 – Fences and WallsView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 2025 Update 2).

Full Breakdown

Annapolis City Code § 21.60.070(B)(2) puts the burden on the fence owner: a fence or wall may be installed up to, but not over, the property line, and it is the property owner's responsibility to ensure the fence isn't placed on someone else's land. If a neighbor later disputes exactly where the fence sits, the Code says that dispute is between the abutting property owners, who 'shall not seek or have any remedy against the City.' Every fence still needs a permit under § 17.34.010, and fences within the historic district need Historic Preservation Commission approval under § 21.60.070(B)(1) first.

Violations & Fines

Building over the line invites a private boundary dispute with the neighbor, not a City citation: the Code expressly bars any remedy against the City. Separately, installing a fence without the required § 17.34.010 permit can still draw code enforcement action.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who resolves a fence boundary dispute in Annapolis?
The abutting property owners themselves. City Code § 21.60.070(B)(2) bars them from seeking any remedy against the City, so it's a private survey/negotiation or civil court matter.
Can I build my fence exactly on the property line?
Yes, up to the line is allowed, but not over it, and you're responsible for confirming exactly where the line runs before building.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Annapolis

Noise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsHeight LimitsSome RestrictionsMaterial RestrictionsSome RestrictionsRetaining WallsSome RestrictionsFence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Veterinary Clinic ZoningSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet Groomer RulesSome Restrictions

All Annapolis rules

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