Denton County, TX Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)

Unincorporated Denton County has no ordinance governing fence placement relative to neighbors, which side faces outward, or cost-sharing obligations. Unlike states with good-neighbor fence acts, Texas common law treats fences as the sole responsibility of the property owner who builds them. A fence built entirely on one owner's property belongs to that owner alone. Boundary fences straddling the property line may be considered jointly owned, but Texas law does not compel a neighbor to share construction or maintenance costs. Denton County does not require a survey before fence installation, though it is recommended to avoid encroachment disputes. Under Texas Agriculture Code Chapter 143, Denton County is a closed-range county for livestock, meaning animal owners must fence in their livestock rather than neighbors fencing animals out. Fence disputes between neighbors are resolved through Denton County Justice of the Peace courts for claims under $20,000 or through district court for larger claims. Mediation through the Denton County Dispute Resolution Center is available as an alternative.