Fence Etiquette: What to Know Before Fence Installation
Installing a fence on your property can give you privacy, security, keep a pet contained, or give children a safe place to play. But it can also cause problems with your neighbors if you don’t know about fence installation etiquette.
Over the years, the team here at Denver Fence Company has installed thousands of fences for homeowners and commercial businesses alike. Some projects go more smoothly than others as far as the neighbors are concerned. Today, we want to share with you some fence etiquette tips that can help you have a successful fence installation process while keeping your neighbors happy.
Let’s get started.
Fence Etiquette Tip #1: Double-check Property Lines
You’d be surprised how many people don’t check the property lines before putting up a fence. This is usually a problem with DIY jobs, as any reputable fence contractor will have you get a survey before installing a fence close to the property lines.
Don’t go based on your memory of where the property line is. The last thing you want to do is build a fence that encroaches on your neighbor’s property, because they are well within their rights to have you then tear it down.
Follow Local Regulations
In addition, Denver fence regulations do not permit you to build a fence in the public right of way. For a front yard fence, the fence must be set back at least 6” from the sidewalk, regardless of where the property line is. There are requirements regarding setbacks from designated parkways as well.
Professional fence contractors will know all of the regulations regarding fence height, permits, setbacks, etc.
Fence Etiquette Tip #2: Communicate with Your Neighbors (and Your HOA)
Before you hire a company for fence installation, check with your Homeowner’s Association (HOA) if you belong to one, to make sure you follow all of the rules and regulations. This will save you headaches down the line. HOAs can force you to tear down a fence that doesn’t meet association requirements.
If the fence will be near the property line, it’s also just a polite thing to do to alert your immediate neighbors to the fact you are getting a fence installed, and to let them know when the fence contractor will be on site. A lot of heavy equipment may be moving within their earshot, so it’s good to let them be prepared.
Fence Etiquette Tip #3: Have the “Good Side” of the Fence Face the Neighbors
If you’re installing a wood fence or vinyl fence that has pickets on one side and backer rails/fence stringers on the other side, have the picket side face your neighbors. That’s actually the traditional way to do it. Or you can choose a fence style that looks good on both sides, and everyone has something nice to look at. This is called a “good neighbor fence.”
Examples of “good neighbor fence” styles include:
• Shadowbox
• Basket Weave
• Board on Board
Fence Etiquette Tip #4: Maintain Your Fence
This is just a smart thing to do, in order to protect your investment. Get fence repairs done as needed, to keep small animals or children from getting into or getting out of your yard. If you stain or paint your fence, keep up with that as well. For a vinyl fence or Trex fencing, a simple wash down with mild soap and a hose can clean up both sides of the fence.
By following these tips, you can maintain, and even enhance your relationship with your neighbors. As Robert Frost said in his poem Mending Wall, “Good fences make good neighbors.”
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Fence Installation FAQs
Schedule a Fence Installation EstimateIf you’re looking for a reputable fence contractor in the Denver metro area, you’re in the right place. The team here at Denver Fence Company has decades of experience designing and installing all types of fences for homeowners and commercial clients.
Fence installation is a home improvement project best left to the professionals who have the knowledge, expertise, and the tools to do the job right. Your fence will last much longer with professional installation.
To schedule a free estimate, call (720) 418-8194. You can also fill out the contact form and we’ll be in touch by the next business day. Our service area covers the Denver area, including Arvada, Aurora, Boulder, Golden, Lakewood, Wheat Ridge, and surrounding areas.