Installing a fence has a lot more involved than just choosing a particular style fence and putting it up in any location. There are particular laws that apply specifically to fences or any structure, these can cover aspects such as permits, size, and design.
As always safety will also be a top concern for any neighborhood. Here are common questions about the fencing requirements in Albertville Minnesota to review before your fence installation.
Since fencing requirements can vary from community to community, let’s talk about our particular area of Albertville, MN, and how they approach regulations on fencing when it comes to the importance of property lines.
Any structure must not extend on to or over the property line of the lot it is constructed for. If an agreement is made between property owners, a fence may be placed on a shared property line as a boundary fence.
In most cases, no you cannot build your fence on an easement. There are certain cases in which an easement can be built on. This requires a prior agreement and even, if it comes to it, a court hearing where the particular reason you have for needing to build it outside your property.
For those building or who already own a fence the best thing to do is to consult neighbors to avoid any unwanted disputes. Neighbors do not always need to be catered to, but should be taken into consideration when noise or visual aspects of your property come into play, and this includes your fence.
For instance, if you plan to paint a fence make sure it will not be an issue first. Do not leave a dog outside disturbing neighbors with incessant barking just because your fence keeps the dog on your property.
If you are not impeding on a neighbors property you do not legally have to notify them of it. However, it is common courtesy to inform a neighbor of your plans and construction dates to avoid any disputes. A neighbor may request time to move something nearby or may even be willing to share costs for input on the design.
The good neighbor rule is applied to a fence placed on a boundary line. In this case the fence technically belongs to both parties, and both are responsible for maintaining it. This type of fence cannot be constructed or removed without approval from both property owners.
A neighbor is only required to assist in paying to build or repair a fence if it is on a shared property line. Any structure that is fully on your property is solely your responsibility to maintain, the same goes for your neighbor.
An agreement should be made between neighbors over exact responsibilities concerning a boundary fence to avoid any disputes. In the rare instance a neighbor refuses to pay for maintenance of an agreed upon boundary fence lawsuits can be made to compensate you for repairs.
Don’t forget the extraneous questions that need answered and resolved before installation. There might be unexpected red tape and delays or even possible fines that should be researched beforehand so they can be avoided or at least anticipated.
A permit is required in Albertville, MN for any type of construction. An applicant who begins construction before a permit is approved may be subject to fines. Special permits can be applied for in unique circumstances which call for them.
It is the responsibility of whoever is installing the fence, whether yourself or an outside company, to contact utility companies and mark locations to avoid interfering with private underground lines. A fence cannot block obvious utilities and it is especially specified for it not to deflect natural drainage.
A survey will sometimes, but not always, be required during your application process. The Building Official can at any time require an applicant or current owner of a fence to undergo a property survey if they feel it is necessary.
This may also be helpful to define exact property lines. However, any fence or construction of a fence can be inspected and its owner fined, if it becomes or remains a danger or nuisance.
Understanding how to properly and legally install your fence is the beginning step in the entire process. While it is not as fun as choosing colors or designs, laws must be considered. Follow the specific regulations for the Albertville community and choose a quality fence for a successful installation experience.
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