Massachusetts state law (MGL c. 49 §§1–21) governs boundary fences between neighbors, including cost-sharing and the Fence Viewer process for disputes. Norfolk County courts handle fence viewer appeals.
Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 49 governs fences between abutting property owners. Under §2, owners of adjoining land are each required to maintain their half of a shared boundary fence in good repair. Disputes about fence line locations, costs, or condition may be brought before town Fence Viewers (local officials). Norfolk County Superior Court handles appeals. The 'spite fence' statute (MGL c. 49 §21) prohibits fences erected maliciously to annoy a neighbor — courts can order removal of a spite fence. Good-neighbor conventions (finished side facing outward) are generally not legally required in Massachusetts but are expected by most towns.
Fence Viewer orders are enforceable; failure to comply may result in court action. Spite fences may be ordered removed by Superior Court.
Norfolk County, MA
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See how Norfolk County's neighbor fence rules rules stack up against other locations.
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