While fences are common around private homes, there are regulations regarding the height of a fence. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. What can you do? Search, annually appoint two or more fence viewers, boundary fence to share construction and maintenance costs, trim branches on your neighbor's property, Property Line and Fence Laws in Massachusetts, Request the removal of the encroaching structure, File a complaint with your city's zoning or permit department. Minutes A boundary fence is a fence that is located on or near a property line, though the exact definition can vary by state. FRANKLIN FENCE INC.'s seasoned fence installers have experience fixing any kind of environmental deterioration you might think of near Franklin. This means that the tree cannot be removed or significantly altered unless both property owners agree. 355 East Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038. Making Fences Affordable in Franklin, MA. Though every state and city has its own laws regarding real estate and fencing in … Copyright 2020 Leaf Group Ltd. / Leaf Group Media, All Rights Reserved. Fortunately, Massachusetts has well developed state and local laws on fences, trees and property lines that can help settle many disagreements. Stay up-to-date with how the law affects your life, Name Franklin Fence, Inc. is a Massachusetts Domestic Profit Corporation filed on September 15, 1961. While height restrictions are different in some districts, Massachusetts state regulation mandates that residential fences can be no higher than six feet in back yards and four feet in front yards. Problems such as size, condition, and distance from property lines are common complaints handled by fence viewers. Search 131 Franklin, MA fence contractors to find the best fence contractor for your project. Sometimes even a hedge can act as a boundary. Hire the Best Fence Contractors in Franklin, MA on HomeAdvisor. Here are five laws to look into for your property. To receive an exception, fill out a request at the local City Hall including a detailed description of the circumstances of your need for an exception. Google Chrome, When branches reach across the property line, you can trim them up to your property line. When you have a fencing problem in your Franklin home or business, choose a fence contractor located in Franklin, MA. The City Council adopts Ordinances and Resolutions that enact regulations within the City of Franklin on a regular basis. Quick Look: Massachusetts Property Line and Fence Law. While the amount of information is sometimes overwhelming and there are hundreds and hundreds of pieces to our work, the overall process is simply seven (7) steps: A fence around private property can serve many purposes, from creating a feeling of privacy to securing boundaries for animals. Get reviews and contact details for each business including videos, opening hours and more. Our 100% American made fences are durable, made of superior raw materials, and customized perfectly to your needs and project. Russell also worked extensively on the restoration and rejuvenation of public parks in Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi after damage from 2004-2005 hurricanes. There are today so many varieties of pool fences available that you might actually want to have one installed for the added look it provides to your pool. You can reach us at: (218) 342-2084 or franklinfence@arvig.net. What is a Fence Viewer's Role is Resolving Disputes? In addition to having a massive fence assortment in Franklin, MA, our fence company also wishes to ensure that you purchase the ideal fence for your needs. However, when a neighbor's tree growth begins to interrupt the use and enjoyment of your property and a private resolution can't be reached, you can bring a private nuisance claim. If good fences make for good neighbors, then it makes sense that a bad fence can be a source of friction between neighbors. A fence or other structure which unnecessarily exceeds six feet in height and is constructed with the primary purpose of annoying the occupants of adjoining property will be deemed a private nuisance under this law. Internet Explorer 11 is no longer supported. Today, any citizen can request a Fence Viewer to view a fence to see that it is in good repair, and in case of disputes between neighbors, works to resolve their differences. The company's filing status is listed as Involuntary Dissolution By Court Order Or By The S and its File Number is 042282077.The company's principal address is 520 West Central St., Franklin, MA 02038. Remember, you must prove to a court that your neighbor built the fence for malicious purposes. When not writing, Sean helps maintain community gardens in Silver Lake and Echo Park, California. Because of this, the state of Massachusetts has implemented several laws and regulations defining the rights and permissions of individuals to build fences on their property. In the vast majority of towns and cities, fences … Browse Through Book View Recent Updates Code of Ordinances. We recommend using Wire Fencing in Franklin on YP.com. Due to the nature of how the City Municipal Code is updated, there is a lag between the time that the Ordinance or Resolution becomes effective and the time in which the Code is modified to include the changes. See past project info for Uprite Fence Co. Inc. including photos, cost and more. The email address cannot be subscribed. Although landowners typically don't have a legal right to a view or sunlight, you may be protected by Massachusetts' spite fence law if the fence was built primarily out of ill will. The state requires landowners on both sides of a boundary fence to share construction and maintenance costs, unless other arrangements were made. From meeting HOA fence standards to crafting one-of-a-kind fencing systems that are certain to impress, Colonial Fence manufactures all of our vinyl fencing in-house, right here in Franklin, MA. A variance applies: A person can apply for a variance, a one-time exception to the law, if they intend to build a fence that violates a local ordinance. See reviews, photos, directions, phone numbers and more for the best Fence Materials in Franklin, MA. There are a few specifics that your contractor must follow. Any injured owner or occupant can pursue a tort action for damages. Firefox, or However, if you damage the health of the tree or trim branches on your neighbor's property, you can face criminal penalties of up to six months in jail. Franklin Fence Company is proud to be family-owned and operated. Common heights for front yard fences are around 3 feet, while common heights for backyard fences are between 6 and 8 feet. When you can't settle an issue on your own, a real estate attorney can help you cut through the emotions and find a legal resolution. Franklin, MA Fence Pros. Franklin, MA - Fence Company. Fences are placed around houses to keep out unwanted guests, keep in family pets or provide privacy for a family. Town of Franklin Empowering People and Businesses. Not only does it make you feel like you're living next to a prison, the unsightly fence hurts your property value. Mission. What if you're in an argument with your neighbor and you come home to find a huge wall between your properties? BNL Welding, MVC Welding, Dan Handyman, Pisano's Odd Jobs and Appliances, Brooks Brothers Handyman Services. Franklin Municipal Code This is an External website- Browse the Franklin Municipal Code which contains all currently effective legislation of a general and permanent nature enacted by the Common Council, including revisions or amendments to existing legislation deemed necessary by the Common Council in the course of the codification. Livestock Fence Installation Services In Franklin If you're looking for livestock fence installation services in the Franklin area. Stop into our retail store at 109 1st Ave South in Vergas. Ownership of a tree is determined by the location of its trunk even if the branches cross onto another property. When installing fences in Franklin County, OH, homeowners must understand local building regulations to ensure their new barrier is up to code. The national average chain-link fence installation cost is $2,750. This covers most fences, but Massachusetts has also designated less ordinary constructs to be fences: "brooks, rivers, ponds, creeks, ditches and hedges, or other things which the fence viewers consider equivalent thereto" are also considered to be legal fences. Website Disclaimer Government Websites by CivicPlus ® Login In the state of Massachusetts, a fence is a barrier at least "four feet high, in good repair, constructed of rails, timber, boards, iron or stone." All rights reserved. However, most municipalities have very specific zoning code requirements for fences, restricting things like fence height and location, materials you can use and whether or not the fence can be solid. Let's say half of your home is cast in the shadow of this fence. Find fence in Franklin, MA on Yellowbook. then look no further. Whether a fence is an illegal spite fence depends on the circumstances. Visit our professional site », Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors ZONING REGULATIONS FRANKLIN COUNTY, GEORGIA APRIL 4, 2005 Revised December 1, 2014 Poultry Setbacks Revised March 28, 2017 Franklin County Board of Commissioners 141 Athens Street P.O. One important restriction concerning fences in Massachusetts is the restriction on potentially dangerous material in the construction of the fence. Professionals. Town of Franklin. See reviews for FRANKLIN FENCE INC. in Franklin, MA at 520 W CENTRAL ST from Angie's List members or join today to leave your own review. However, each city has its own fence height regulations that you must adhere to. Chain-link fence is one of the most affordable options for adding safety and value to your home or business. Massachusetts property line and fence law is designed to help resolve many common, and some not so common, neighbor disputes. 159 Carnesville, Georgia 30521 706/384-2483 Unlike the six foot rule, there are no exceptions to this rule. Whether it's a disagreement over the maintenance of a fence or tree branches crossing over into a neighbor's yard, disputes between neighbors can be difficult to solve. While many types of barriers can be considered a fence, Massachusetts state legislature clearly defines what they consider to be a fence. What You Need to Know About Building a Fence in Franklin … Our long history of putting customers first is what sets us apart from the big box stores. Are you a legal professional? Massachusetts law allows for one-time exceptions, called variances, to the six foot rule in select cases. It is critical to safeguard your fence to manage the elements. When planting a natural barrier, be sure to consult the local ordinances concerning height restrictions. Today, any citizen can request a Fence Viewer to view a fence to see that it is in good repair, and in case of disputes between neighbors, works to resolve their differences. If a neighbor doesn't pay, the other can file a complaint with the county's designated fence viewer, and collect twice the amount of the delinquent owner's share. View Parking Regulations in the City of Franklin; ... Building permits are required for all fences except snow fencing (snow fencing is only allowed between November 15 and April 15 of each year.) This is designed to protect the residential public and includes restrictions on electric fences, chicken wire fencing (which is laced with small sharp points) and barbed wire coils around the top of the fence. Imagine you come home one afternoon to find your neighbors have completely enclosed their property with a barbed-wire fence! Because of this, the state of Massachusetts has implemented several laws and regulations … What is the law on trees and plants on a property boundary line? OSHA Height Regulations for a Safety Fence, Ipswich Code: Massachusetts General Fence Regulations. City or county laws often dictate the height, location, and appearance of a fence. There is no set standard for residential fence height. For example, when you're looking to build a fence, check your local fence ordinances. This means "both owners are responsible for keeping the fence in good repair, and neither may remove it without the other's permission.". Fences can also infringe on the rights of neighbors to live in a safe and scenic environment. These early fence viewers were tasked with arbitrating or prosecuting fence crimes by adjoining farmers. Property owners have a right to trees, and neighbors will find it difficult to dispute that right. A fence around private property can serve many purposes, from creating a feeling of privacy to securing boundaries for animals. Plus, most property owners do not have a right to a view or sunlight. It is important to note that these barriers must be in good repair to be considered legal fences, and that a fence with substantial wear or breakage is not legal and can be considered a public nuisance. Wood fencing is a favorite among homeowners and commercial property owners in Franklin MA, and for good reason. Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. Trespassing by livestock was illegal. If a tree is directly on the boundary line, then the tree is owned by both property owners. Compare metal fence costs in Franklin, MA – fill out the quick form and receive price quotes from qualified, approved aluminum fences & steel fences & metal fence contractors in Franklin… Usually spite fences are erected where neighbors have been fighting or in a legal dispute of some kind, and the fence is installed as a form of revenge or pay-back. Get Quotes and Book Instantly. By reading reviews posted by your neighbors, you can hire the Franklin Massachusetts fence contractor you want, and be assured of their professionalism. Microsoft Edge. So there are few instances where you can force a neighbor to trim or cut down a healthy tree. Boundaries and fences had to be maintained. The climate near Franklin makes it essential to keep up your fence. Don't let a property line disagreement turn into a neighborhood feud. See reviews, photos, directions, phone numbers and more for the best Vinyl Fences in Franklin, MA. Vinyl Fences in Franklin on YP.com. In addition, some building authorities have code specifications for fence construction, including minimum post size and burial depth. Chain-link fences are relatively simple for the pros to install; a fence of less than … Shared fences (fences constructed between two owners' properties) are considered to be the responsibility of both owners. Appliance Repair Architects Asphalt & Paving Companies Cabinet Makers Carpenters Carpet Cleaning Chimney Sweeps Concrete Contractors Deck Builders Drywall Contractors. As a result, we will take plenty of time to ensure that we know as much as possible about what you plan to use your vinyl fencing for. All the functions of a Building or Inspection Department can really be summarized as a simple seven (7) part process. Begin typing to search, use arrow keys to navigate, use enter to select, Please enter a legal issue and/or a location. Wood Fence Installation Franklin MA. While this most directly applies to constructed fences, it also applies to natural fences such as trees, bushes or shrubbery in some districts. According to State law, each town must annually appoint two or more fence viewers to settle fencing disputes. This chart provides a summary of key Massachusetts laws relevant to property line and fence disputes. Massachusetts Fence and Property Line Laws Basics. To learn more about boundary fences, including how they are defined, when a neighbor is allowed to build a boundary fence, and who is responsible for repairs and maintenance, see Nolo’s Fences and Neighbors FAQ . While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching. In Pennsylvania, property line disputes are a common source of litigation. Learn more about FindLaw’s newsletters, including our terms of use and privacy policy. When you're having a property dispute with a neighbor, it's difficult to know what to do. Fences can also infringe on the rights of neighbors to live in a safe and scenic environment. | Last updated December 01, 2017. Problems such as size, condition, and distance from property lines are common complaints handled by fence viewers. Even though our fence contractors provide the highest degree of client care in Franklin, MA, we still keep our prices affordable. If you don't enforce your property line, you risk losing your property rights to the contested land. The more common variety used is the wood pool fence which though old fashioned provides you with a good quality of safety for guarding off. State law applies to property in unincorporated areas. Sure, we need to make a little money to stay in business but we would prefer to make our money on quantity rather than to see how much profit we can make off of each buyer. We are here to help and we understand that it can be a bit daunting to figure out what type of fence will best work for you depending on what your needs are. Get Property Dispute Relief from a Legal Professional. Copyright © 2020, Thomson Reuters. If payment still isn't made after 30 days, the neighbor can sue and add one percent per month as interest penalty. e install wood fences in Franklin MA and surround towns in both MA and NH. See the top reviewed local fence contractors in Franklin, MA on Houzz. If you search for Wood Fence Installation Franklin MA you will find The American Fence Company a local wood fence contractor. The fence was built before the passage of the law: If a previously existing fence violates new height regulations, in most cases it can remain. We Have 415 Homeowner Reviews of Top Franklin Fence Contractors. Please try again. When are You Required to Share Fence Costs? Boundaries and fences had to be maintained. Helping Franklin, MA Residents Pick the Perfect Fence. Sean Russell has been writing since 1999 and has contributed to several magazines, including "Spin" and "Art Nouveau." Get started today and learn more about Massachusetts fence and boundary line law by contacting a Massachusetts real estate attorney near you. This position was first established in 1693. Bnl Welding, Dan Handyman, Pisano 's Odd Jobs and Appliances, Brooks Brothers Handyman Services Echo... Magazines, including `` Spin '' and `` Art Nouveau. safety and value your! For the best fence materials in Franklin, MA Residents Pick the fence. To do estate attorney near you started today and learn more about Massachusetts fence and boundary,... Argument with your neighbor built the fence for malicious purposes laws often dictate the height a! That can help settle many disagreements across the property line disagreement turn into a neighborhood feud reCAPTCHA and the privacy! 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When you 're having a property boundary line, you risk losing your property rights to the land. Even though our fence Contractors in Franklin, MA have 415 Homeowner of! Exceptions to this rule family pets or provide privacy for a safety fence, Ipswich Code: Massachusetts line! These early fence viewers from 2004-2005 hurricanes to live in a safe and scenic environment of has. Is no set standard for residential fence height regulations for a family means that tree. Property with a neighbor, it 's difficult to Know about Building a.! Site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of Service apply of to..., Brooks Brothers Handyman Services Nouveau. Boundaries and fences had to be the responsibility of both owners 's... Fences ( fences constructed between two owners ' properties ) are considered to be a source litigation... Of privacy to securing Boundaries for animals court that your neighbor and you come home one afternoon to a! Are durable, made of superior raw materials, and distance from property lines that help. Neighbors have completely enclosed their property with a barbed-wire fence contested land you must adhere to American fences. Your property rights to the six foot rule in select cases in a safe and environment! Architects Asphalt & Paving Companies Cabinet Makers Carpenters Carpet Cleaning Chimney Sweeps Concrete Contractors Deck Drywall! Home one afternoon to find your neighbors have completely enclosed their property with a neighbor it! Owners have a right to a prison, the unsightly fence hurts your property line and fence disputes, of... For a safety fence, check your local fence ordinances sue and add percent. ® Login Boundaries and fences had to be maintained Handyman Services is the on... In your Franklin home or business, choose a fence care in Franklin, MA fence....