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Do I have to give my neighbor the good side of the fence

Aug 11, 2023

Friendly Neighbor or the Fence Policy?

Alright, so you're building a fence, and you've picked the perfect style, but then a question pops into your head: "Which side of this fancy fence does my neighbor get to see?" It's a valid question, and I'll tell you, it's not always about laws and ordinances (though they do come into play). A lot of it is about being neighborly.

The Good Side, the Bad Side, and the Law

In many places, there's actually something called the "Good Neighbor Fence Law." Now, it doesn't mean you and your neighbor have to be best buddies, but it does mean you need to consider them in your fence-building adventure.


Typically, the law states that the more finished side, often known as the "good side" or the "pretty side," should face outwards. That means your neighbors and anyone passing by get to see the smooth, clean side, while you might be stuck looking at the fence's structural elements.


But wait, before you get all grumpy about looking at the "ugly" side, let's talk about the real reasons behind this, and why it might not be so bad.

maintaining a new fence

Why Give Them the Good Side?

Firstly, it's all about curb appeal. The good side facing out gives the whole neighborhood a neater look. It's kind of like putting on a nice shirt when you go out; it's just the polite thing to do.


Secondly, it might actually be in your best interest. If your neighbor likes what they see, they're less likely to complain or have issues with the fence. Trust us, it can save you a world of headaches.


What If My Neighbor and I Disagree?

Here at Matthews Fence Company, we've seen it all. If you and your neighbor can't agree on the fence style or who gets the good side, it's often best to talk it out. If that doesn't work, a mediator or even legal advice may be necessary. But hey, let's hope it doesn't come to that!


Custom Fences to the Rescue

Worried about getting stuck with the "bad" side? We offer custom fences that look good on both sides! Yep, that's right. We can design a fence that's win-win, so neither you nor your neighbor feels short-changed.


Wrapping It Up

So, do you have to give your neighbor the good side of the fence? Well, legally speaking, you might. But beyond the law, it's just a nice thing to do. And, honestly, it's not the end of the world if you see a few posts and rails on your side.


At Matthews Fence Company, we believe in building fences that make everyone happy. Whether it's a good side for your neighbor or a fantastic two-sided design, we're here to help. After all, fences are about boundaries, not battles. Let's keep them friendly! Feel free to swing by or give us a call if you have more questions. We'd love to chat!

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