Somerville, MA Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)

Fence relationships between neighbors in Somerville are governed largely by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 49, the Fence Law, rather than a detailed city ordinance. Under MGL c.49, owners of adjoining improved lands are jointly responsible for maintaining partition fences, and disputes over cost-sharing may go before the Somerville Board of Fence Viewers (a role filled by designated city officials). Somerville zoning requires that the finished or good side of a fence face outward toward the neighbor and public way, with supporting posts and rails on the owner's side. Fences must be built entirely on the owner's side of the surveyed property line unless neighbors sign a shared boundary agreement. Malicious fences, built for no purpose except to spite a neighbor, are prohibited under MGL Chapter 49 Section 21 and can be declared a private nuisance. Accurate surveys are strongly recommended before installation.