One of the many reasons people choose to have fences installed is privacy. Whether it’s from your neighbors or from everyday traffic where you live, a fence can help with this. However, if you want to install a fence, there are a few things you need to know. One of them is where your property lines are.
What are property lines?
Property lines- also known as boundary lines- are the specific points that mark out what is your property and what is your neighbor’s. Most people don’t know the exact location of their property lines. However, they usually have a general idea of where they are. However, there are times when you need to know exactly where these lines are. If you are planning to install a pool, fence, or build an addition onto your home, it’s important to know where these lines are. Just like you wouldn’t want your neighbor building on your land, you don’t want to build on theirs either.
How do I find my property lines?
When you buy a home, there’s usually a lot of paperwork involved. Amongst this paperwork you can typically find a property line map. If this was not included with the purchase of your home, it may even be available at your local assessor’s office or even online. Another place you can find your property lines is by looking at the property’s deed. This should have a legal description of your property’s boundaries. If it comes to it, there is always the option to hire a professional surveyor. They will be able to research the property’s history and measure out the precise boundaries of the land.
How close to the property line can I build?
Although it may appeal to you to build on- or as close as possible- to your property line, this isn’t always a great idea. It could be as simple as keeping your neighbors happy. However, it could also help you with maintenance later on in your fence’s life. Additionally, depending on where you live, there are different rules and regulations about how close to your property line you can actually install your fence. This is typically 2, 4, 6, or 8 inches from the property line. In other places, you may be able to go right on the property line itself. You are more likely to be able to build directly on the property line in more densely populated areas. This would allow you to take advantage of what (potentially limited) space you have in your yard.
What if I build my fence over the property line?
Once you know the limits of your property, it’s important to stay within them. Although your fence contractor will know the typical local zoning regulations for the height of your fence and how close it can be to the boundaries, it is important to share your findings with them as well. If a fence is installed outside of your property boundaries, then you are technically trespassing. You can talk to your neighbor about this, but you will most likely need to tear down the fence and install a new one. To save yourself both time and money, make sure your fence is installed in the correct place from the beginning.
Installing a fence may seem like a daunting task- especially once you consider your property lines and other regulations you might have where you live. Luckily, your local fence contractors have years or experience and know-how to make sure your fence is installed correctly the first time. If you’re looking to install a fence, you can request a quote from Clarksville Fencing today!
