California's Good Neighbor Fence Act (Civil Code 841) requires neighbors to share costs of boundary fences equally. Spite fences over 10 ft are a private nuisance under Civil Code 841.4.
California Civil Code §841 (Good Neighbor Fence Act of 2013) creates a presumption that adjoining landowners share equally in the responsibility for maintaining boundary fences. Before constructing or replacing a boundary fence, 30 days’ written notice must be given to the neighbor. The notice must include a description of the problem, proposed solution, and estimated cost. Spite fences (over 10 feet, built maliciously) are prohibited under Civil Code §841.4. Disputes may be resolved through mediation or small claims court.
Civil remedy: neighbor can sue for share of costs. Spite fence: injunction + damages. Small claims court for disputes under $12,500.
Downey, CA
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Downey, CA
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Downey, CA
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Downey, CA
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Downey, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
See how other cities in Los Angeles County handle neighbor fence rules.
See how Downey's neighbor fence rules rules stack up against other locations.
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