Property pins are the precise markers of the corners of your property. Having pins exposed and connected by string is the best way to observe your lot lines. Northland Fence will need these exposed to ensure proper measurements and consciousness of your lot boundaries. Certified surveyors are the only ones qualified to replace missing or broken pins.

Boundary fences are built on the line dividing two lots. These structures are made out of an agreement by both parties, who will share costs and future care of the barrier.

If one neighbor builds on the property line, it is illegal to not be in agreement with the other land owner.

Fences should not be built in a location that interferes with the rightful use of an easement. When fences are placed too close or block access to an easement area, the fence owner risks damages, by the rightful user of the easement, at their own expense. The city will not reimburse property owners in this instance.

If neighbors sign a certificate of compliance, a fence may be built up to or on the property line. If there is no agreement between neighbors, property owners may only construct a fence up to 2 feet from the property line. Fences should never invade public rights of way or redirect water drainage. Easement areas should also be avoided.

The better you keep peace between yourself and other property owners is how well a neighborhood gets along. Construction can sometimes disrupt this, so show common courtesy and learn each rule associated with neighbor contact.

Neighbors do not have to be notified of construction scheduled on your property, unless you plan to build within 2 feet of the property line. If you expect to enter their property or that there may be a lot of noise during construction, it is considered neighborly to do so. Communication with neighbors is key to avoiding disputes. Neighbors may even be willing to contribute to costs.

Maintenance and repairs of a fence need performed by both parties if it is on a shared property line. This fence could have been priory built, and still belong to both adjoining owners.

The decision to erect a boundary fence is serious and will need to be a written agreement with maintenance and costs laid out for the future. All alterations to a shared fence will need approved by both parties.

Fences need to be erected only after they are approved by the city. Some fences, depending on the height may not need to have a permit, but always know what your certain situation will require you to do. Further information is available at Zimmerman City Hall if you have even more particular situations on your land.

Permits are required for constructing a fence on your land. For fence installation 6 feet and under, apply for a zoning permit. A building permit will be needed for any barriers taller. The times for approval will vary and be up to seven days, so be sure to know all of the details the first time you submit the application.

Whoever is installing the fence needs to find utility lines underground and mark them for a safe non-interfering construction. Northland Fence contacts Gopher State One and uses the locational information received appropriately.

A survey will only be required if property lines cannot be easily defined, for instance, if property pins are missing. The average permit application only requires a simple site plan which can be created by the owner. If you need help, a certified surveyor can create a site plan for you which accurately depicts your property boundaries, structures, and individual variances.

Pools require a safety fence surrounding the area as an additional layer of protection for children. Pool fences are required to use a climb resistant design, which means it must be at least 4 feet in height and have no footholds or gaps greater than 4 inches. Gates that access the area must be locked when the area is unsupervised and must also be equipped with self closing hinges and latches.

Corner lot owners are restricted from building within a visibility triangle located at the property corner nearest a street or railroad right of way intersection. This area is measured 25 feet along each property line front the corner. Remember the property corner will likely have a setback from the curb lines.

Most appearance restrictions are made because of safety reasons. By not following them and making a fence too high or having it made of dangerous things you are endangering the whole neighborhood and any passerbys. That is why the look is so important, and not just for aesthetic

Fence in front yards will always have to be shorter than allowed in a back lot. Bayards and inner side lots are allowed to have fences built to 6-feet tall. Fences can be 4-feet and lower in front yards.

Fence design restrictions will be limited to hazardous materials (or situations.) Barb wire and electric fences are prohibited across Minnesota. The finished side of the fence must face outwards (which makes it easier for climbing.)

Keep visibility in mind. The fence cannot be completely paneled, or opaque, in front yards, or along corner lots.

The purpose the fence will serve in the future should be the main thing you look for in its design. A fence is a large investment, and its purchase needs thought-out to the fullest before you order the structure.

So the fence can do its job for years on the property, find a material that can hold up to the varying Minnesota seasons.

Recognize the laws and what they require you to do in each specific scenario. Breaking them will result in hefty fines, or if you tread on another’s land, you could end up in court. These options are all unappealing because the deconstruction of a newly constructed barrier is devastating.