Suffolk, VA Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Finished Side
- Must face outward
- Shared Cost
- Not required in VA
- Property Line
- Build on your side
- Disputes
- Civil court or survey
- Code
- UDO Sec. 31-701(b)(10)
Summary
Suffolk's code requires the finished side of any fence to face outward toward neighbors and the street. Virginia has no shared-fence-cost law, so each Suffolk owner pays for and maintains their own fence.
The "finished" side of any fence shall face outward towards surrounding properties and rights-of-way.
D. No barbed wire or electrified or similar type fences shall be permitted except in conjunction with a bona fide agricultural operation.
(11) Roadside sales of produce provided that operations shall be limited to no more than one hundred eighty (180) days per year and solely to the sale of produce grown or raised on the premises and shall provide off-street parking for not less than three
(3) vehicles.
(12) Where permitted as an accessory use, private tennis courts shall not be constructed within twenty (20) feet of any adjoining property under other ownership. Tennis court fences or walls shall not exceed twelve (12) feet in height. Any lights for the tennis court shall be placed so as to not direct or reflect light upon adjoining land.
(13) Accessory dwelling units, where permitted pursuant to Section 31-406 of this Ordinance, shall be established only on properties developed as detached single-family residences and in accordance with the following criteria:
A. Accessory dwelling units shall comply with the minimum setback and intensity of use regulations for the principal dwelling unit as set forth in Section 31-407 of this Ordinance.
B. On properties that contain a principal dwelling unit of 2,000 square feet or less, the accessory dwelling unit shall not contain a gross floor area greater than fifty
Full Breakdown
Suffolk Unified Development Ordinance Sec. 31-701(b)(10)(C) requires the finished side of any fence to face outward toward surrounding properties and rights-of-way, so neighbors see the smooth face rather than the posts and rails. Virginia has no Good Neighbor Fence Act, which means a Suffolk owner cannot force a neighbor to split costs; each owner builds on their own side of the surveyed property line and maintains their own fence. Boundary and encroachment disputes are civil matters resolved through a survey, negotiation, or the courts. HOA covenants in Suffolk's planned communities may add further style and placement rules.
Violations & Fines
Facing the unfinished side outward violates the UDO and can bring a correction notice. Building over the property line exposes the owner to a civil encroachment claim and possible court-ordered removal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which way should my fence face in Suffolk?
Does my neighbor have to help pay for the fence?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Suffolk
Compare Suffolk to another location·View the Virginia fence regulations overview
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