Bristol County, MA Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Spite Fence
- MGL Ch. 49 §21: prohibited statewide
- Shared Cost
- No MA statute requiring cost sharing
- Boundary Disputes
- Civil court resolution
- Notification
- No formal requirement
Summary
Massachusetts law under MGL Ch. 49 §21 prohibits spite fences over 6 feet erected maliciously throughout Bristol County. There is no state shared-cost statute. Boundary disputes are resolved through civil court.
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.
Full Breakdown
Massachusetts has no statutory fence cost-sharing requirement. Each property owner is responsible for their own fence. MA’s spite fence law (MGL c.49 §21) makes fences over 6 feet erected maliciously to annoy neighbors a private nuisance, actionable in court. The historical perambulation of bounds (MGL c.42 §2) still exists for town boundaries. Property line disputes resolved through surveys and court. Disputes under $7,000 can go to small claims.
Violations & Fines
Spite fence: civil action for damages + injunction (MGL c.49 §21). Property line encroachment: civil suit. Small claims for disputes under $7,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who pays for a fence between neighbors in Bristol County?
What are the rules about shared fences in Bristol County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Bristol County
Compare Bristol County to another location·View the Massachusetts fence regulations overview
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