Norfolk County, MA Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- State Law
- MGL c. 49 §§1–21 (Fence Viewers)
- Cost Sharing
- Each owner maintains their half of shared fence
- Spite Fence Law
- MGL c. 49 §21: courts can order removal
- Dispute Process
- File with town Fence Viewers; appeal to Superior Court
- County Role
- Norfolk County Superior Court handles appeals
Summary
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.
Section 21. A fence or other structure in the nature of a fence which unnecessarily exceeds six feet in height and is maliciously erected or maintained for the purpose of annoying the owners or occupants of adjoining property shall be deemed a private nuisance. Any such owner or occupant injured in the comfort or enjoyment of his estate thereby may have an action of tort for damages under chapter two hundred and forty-three.
Full Breakdown
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.
Violations & Fines
Fence Viewer orders are enforceable; failure to comply may result in court action. Spite fences may be ordered removed by Superior Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for a fence between neighbors in Norfolk County?
What are the rules about shared fences in Norfolk County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Norfolk County
Compare Norfolk County to another location·View the Massachusetts fence regulations overview
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