How to Talk to Your Neighbors About Sharing a Fence

You've made your decision; after the previous years of installing your new deck and other outdoor accessories, it's time for the final touch: that brand-new fence.

You've been longing for added privacy and style for your home for some time now. However, two obstacles may have stood in your way--money and neighbor approval. Now that you have the money, you start to consider the possibility of your neighbor agreeing to the fence.

If you want the conversion to go smoothly, take a look at these tips for talking to your neighbor about a new fence!

Learn Minnesota's Fence Laws

Partition fences require both property owners to share the cost, in both parties should agree on the type of fence to be built.

However, if your property is less than 20 acres and you live in a city or town, chances are it's a division fence, and your neighbor won't need to pay for it. Some townships and counties are exempt from the laws, so it's always recommended to check with local agencies to confirm.

While public pools require a fence built around them, there is no statewide law around private pools, but some cities in Minnesota have bylaws that need to be followed.

Check Local Fence Ordinances

If you are the property owner, you are responsible for locating property lines and understanding the zoning rules. The max height in your front and corner side areas is three feet. The backyard portion can be up to six feet high unless it's along a public street; then, it cannot exceed five feet.

Explain the Benefits for Both Sides

When neighbors share a property line, they will most likely share a fence as well. If they have mentioned installing a fence themselves or if you're on good terms with them, ask them if they would like to be involved in the fence-building process. This will benefit both sides since you can split costs, construction, and labor.

Keep in mind: Only consider this option if you know they will most likely agree to join the process.

Coordinate Property Lines

It doesn't matter if either of you has lived around that property since it was first built or you've only been there a year or two; it's important to discuss and share the original property lines and local ordinances.

Looking at the original property documents can help you better understand exactly where your property ends and your neighbor begins.

Even if they agree to install the fence with you, an open level of transparency will go a long way!

Keep Your Neighbors in the Loop

Whether your neighbors agree to install the fence with you or not, if you're the party that started the project, it's always a good idea to keep open communication with the neighbor. A timeline of construction dates, material delivery, and finishing dates will help keep a healthy relationship with your fence-sharing neighbor.

Keep the Fence in Visually Appealing Condition

Whether it is a picket fence or a private fence, routine maintenance is absolutely necessary. Minnesota state law requires regular maintenance to keep it in good standing by keeping up on repairs and ensuring it stays in the area between the fence and neighbors' property line.

Not only does the maintenance of your fence prolong its life, but it will also keep you and your neighbor satisfied for years to come.

Contact KNO Woodworks for Twin Cities Fence Installs

Now that you and your neighbor have agreed upon fence installation, it's time to choose one of the best wood fence installations in the Twin Cities from KNO Woodworks!

Start your project online today or give us a call at 612-226-5172!