Wichita Falls, TX Fence Regulations: Neighbor Fence Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Shared Cost
- Not required by Texas law (urban)
- Property Line
- Fence must be on builder's property
- Disputes
- Civil matter between owners
- Communication
- Recommended before building
Summary
Wichita Falls follows Texas state law regarding shared boundary fences. Texas does not have a statutory requirement for neighbors to share fence costs, but local custom and agreements may apply.
Sec. 143.001. SUFFICIENT FENCE REQUIRED. Except as provided by this chapter for an area in which a local option stock law has been adopted, each gardener or farmer shall make a sufficient fence around cleared land in cultivation that is at least five feet high and will prevent hogs from passing through. Acts 1981, 67th Leg., p. 1339, ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1981.
Sec. 143.002. GATE. A person may not build, join, or maintain around cleared land in cultivation more than three miles lineal measure of fence running the same general direction without a gate that is at least 10 feet wide and is unlocked. Acts 1981, 67th Leg., p. 1339, ch. 388, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1981.
Sec. 143.003.
Full Breakdown
Texas does not have a state law requiring neighbors to share the cost of boundary fences in urban areas (unlike rural fence-out laws for livestock). In Wichita Falls, fence disputes between neighbors are civil matters. Property owners building a boundary fence should communicate with neighbors before construction. The fence must be entirely on the builder's property or have mutual agreement. Good neighbor practices suggest facing the finished side outward.
Violations & Fines
Fence disputes are civil matters. Fences that encroach on neighboring property may result in legal action between the parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my neighbor have to pay for half the fence in Wichita Falls?
What if my neighbor's fence is on my property?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Wichita Falls
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Wichita Falls to another location·View the Texas fence regulations overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.