Rowlett, TX Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)

Rowlett's Code of Ordinances regulates fences for height (Sec. 78-313(c)), permitted materials (Sec. 78-313(b)), corner-lot visibility (Sec. 78-313(d)), and maintenance condition (Sec. 78-313(e)), but it does not contain a 'good-neighbor' or 'finished-side-toward-the-neighbor' requirement, and it does not require a property owner to share the cost of a boundary fence. The ordinance does require that all fences be maintained reasonably plumb and structurally sound, that each member be free of deterioration, and that a fence which has deteriorated to a condition likely to fall be repaired, replaced, or removed (Sec. 78-313(e)). For boundary disputes, ownership, and cost-sharing, Texas has no general statewide residential 'partition fence' statute; under Texas case law a landowner generally has no obligation to share the cost of, or maintain, a fence built by a neighbor unless they have agreed in writing to do so. A fence built directly on a shared property line is typically treated as a boundary fence owned by both neighbors. The Texas State Law Library's neighbor-law guide is the standard reference. Owners should confirm the property line (often by survey) before building, and any cost-sharing or 'good neighbor' alternating-panel arrangement should be put in a written agreement. HOA rules, where applicable, may add private requirements beyond the city ordinance.