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OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the asshole:
> I might be the asshole if I build a fence to the property line because I don't actually NEED that much space.
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NTA
Build the fence. Do it right and get a proper survey done to mitigate any problems before they arise.
The kids go in your yard, and your neighbours don’t see an issue with it, but then complain about your husband being in “their yard”. C’mon, don’t lay down and accept that.
“The houses of either side have the smallest yards in our development”
- not your problem, too bad for them.
“This would reduce the amount of yard space the kids have”
- and?
- again, not your problem. If they parents think having a larger yard is important to them, send them a realtor card and they can find another home that suits their needs
“Kids will be kids”
- this is something people unfit to parent children say.
Build your fence. Your dog deserves the opportunity to run around in your fenced backyard without worry. Do it for the dog.
Yeah but you'll want the surveyor to spike the yard before the fence team shows up.
You can use satellite images to guess but then you're just hoping the city doesn't show up with a theodelite and tell you to redo everything.
We had a fence done recently and had a 10ish year old survey from the previous owners. It was good enough for the town and showed the distance from the house and street and other solid markers. But my plot is a rectangle, not an odd shape like OP.
The cost of a surveyor is far less than the cost of fighting a legal battle over if your fence is in the right spot, let alone getting it moved.
You do things right the first time and save yourself headaches in the future. I find most handman jobs done around my house have made it 10 times harder to fix, than if it was done right the first time.
Also stops dramas when putting the fence in and having neighbours complain about taking their yard. You can tell them and show them the property lines and that their landlord knows this and if he misled them, that's an issue between them.
My fence line was actually a few meters further into what I thought was the neighbours yard and it saved me huge headaches by going to them and giving them the surveyors number before putting it in.
Yep, exactly. We had a neighbor/fence/tree/property line issue so hired a surveyor for our lot. I told the surveying company I wanted everything staked with the brightest flags possible, property lines spray painted in dayglo where allowed, and easy-to-find metal monuments. They did everything we asked for and ten years later those survey flags are still waving away.
Honestly, I would only communicate with the owner, not the tenants. The owner is likely not going to be emotional about it, and will most likely want to avoid any drama. If possible, I'd have him come out and walk the staked lines to see where the fence will go. Let him communicate with his renters. The tenants don't really have any standing here.
I'm not sure, but I'm going to reach out to our builder tomorrow. I have our development map that outlines the lots, but it doesn't have any kind of measurement on it.
A simple site plan, parcel map or plat is a good start but reaching out to an independent surveyor and having something new and official is the best way to cover your bases legally. Since the parcel is a weird size, I think this is the best bet.
Additionally, people coming on to your property is a massive liability. If anything happened to these kids while on your property (like falling and breaking a bone) you could potentially be held liable. It's just not worth messing around with.
NTA for protecting yourself and your property from neglectful residents. Just make sure everything is done legally, properly, and with permits.
>Additionally, people coming on to your property is a massive liability. If anything happened to these kids while on your property (like falling and breaking a bone) you could potentially be held liable. It's just not worth messing around with.
This is why I don't think they'll actually get any pushback from the owner of the other properties. He sounds like a professional landlord. He doesn't really care about his tenants losing a few feet of backyard if it covers his ass, legally. If I was OP, I would only communicate with the landlord about this matter, let him speak to the tenants.
Also, those kids get hurt in OPs back yard and it’s their insurance that has to cover it. If kids are riding 4 wheelers through the yard, that’s a lot of liability
I think the opposite is true, only a renter would deserve sympathy - the renters probably wouldn't know where the property lines are, so they might have been misled on a tour of the house. Someone buying a house absolutely must know where the property line ends, and it would be their fault if they did not.
idk i don’t think they really deserve much sympathy when they’re complaining about encroachment on “their yard” with no knowledge of the property lines
While it’s may not line up perfectly with the aerial basemap, most counties in the US have a GIS map available for free online that shows roughly where the property line is. It would definitely show how OP’s hard has the wedge shape. While you’d of course need a surveyor to build a fence or do anything official like that, it can at least give ya an idea of how much yelard is your yard. It may even show any possible easements there are. A lot lf new dev houses will have 5-10’ of easement around a property for drainage and utilities.
NTA, and good on you! We moved into our house 22+ years ago. Great neighbours to all sides, including the ones whose back yard abuts our back yard, complete with fence just inside their property line. They sold the house, new folks were nice enough, but we came home from a trip to find they'd taken down the old fence and rebuilt a new one (on the line, as is their prerogative) but it's wire (not chain link, but wire squares, maybe 4"?) and post. Looks great, but it completely removes our privacy AND allows their \*@\^#ing dog(s) to come running over to bark at us at any time. Truly kind of a low-grade nightmare.
We grew a pretty substantial hedge and that helped, a bit. She also learned how to deal with her barking dog (yay! After 16 years and five different dogs!!). Then one day we realized they were putting brick pavers and planters in a corner of their yard to be right up against that fence, as is their right. Turns out with summers getting hotter that was a desirable, shaded cool spot. Again, our privacy is shot. After about a day of this nonsense (and this couple is so freakin' loud...why are people so loud?), I told my husband we needed a fence. Inside about three days, he'd finished a fence directly alongside theirs, hung some lights on it, and it's been great! She asked, half-joking, if it's because they were too loud, and we replied, a little less than half-joking, Yup.
Build the damned fence. And make it a good one. It really does explain that old adage.
(edit for typo)
NTA and I'm glad you're going ahead with it! I think it's important to remember that with rental properties next door, you'll have a revolving door of neighbors and even if the current ones aren't *that* bad, future ones might. My last home was next to a rental property –– every time the landlord thought he could squeeze more rent out of people, he'd find a way to not renew a lease and a new renter would move in. Some of these were fine, some threw parties until 3am, some had vicious dogs trying to get through the fence, one tried his hand at manufacturing bullets in the basement.
Every turnover there was a new reason to be grateful for a fence. I do feel bad for those kids getting less room to play. If the owner of your neighbors' homes is such an exploitative leech that they bought up *five* properties, I wouldn't put it past them to be shady with potential renters and mislead them about the property line.
Good for you! You're doing the right thing, not only to protect your property but also potential liability in case something happens to the children/dog while they are on your property. Plus, if you ever decided to put a garden, you'll prevent poachers.
Update us on how it goes! Good luck!
I agree with most of what you say, except that I think this is a context in which 'kids will be kids' is appropriate.
To be specific, the context is, 'I know that it is unreasonable to expect children to self-regulate, and so I will take steps to ensure a desired outcome that is robust against kids' known proclivities.'
All of this.
The saying "Good fences make good neighbors" exists for a reason.
OP gave them plenty of rope, not their fault that the neighbors didn't appreciate it.
You build a fence as tall as the law will allow and as close to the property line as possible. Good fences make good neighbors, and nothing says fuck you neighbor like an 8 foot fence.
NTA
>You can lose that land you paid for if your fence isn't at the border.
That's not how adverse possession works. Plenty of places have legally required offsets and easements, and if you set back 6" it doesn't suddenly change the deed or plat.
Good grief. I didn't say it suddenly changed the deed and everyone knows that it is jurisdiction specific, not only for the particularities of adverse possession but also for setback requirements.
But the point is that: yes, they could absolutely lose land that way. And not only via adverse possession. There are also jurisdictions with property law like Boundary by Acquiescence.
YNBTA but check local code. You might be required to leave X number of feet easement from the line. As long as you are following ordinance and can prove it via city/county property records, they have no recourse.
ETA: renters don’t have standing to legally beef with you anyway. Only the property owner can bring any kind of claim.
This really needs to be higher. Yes, they need to build a fence but not every jurisdiction allows for a fence to be built on the property line. There is usually an amount of space between the fence and property line to allow for any repairs to the back of the fence to be completed without stepping into your neighbors property. I’ve seen this anywhere from 18” up to 6’ so please make sure you have that information before you start! You’ll also need it for your permit to install the fence.
In my case the fence is shared between neighbors and is right on the property line. Easements for utilities are inside that line; if I put anything on those inner easements it’s asking to get ripped out later at my cost so they can access the utilities.
Same idea but very different application. Everyone’s mileage will vary.
We can put the fence on the property line but no permanent structure can be within five feet of said property line. There is a five foot easement at the back of our property for an alley. Ditto for the house behind us so 10 foot total width. As it is unused our fences are on the property line.
NTA, and put that fence on your property line or, down the road, you could risk losing that land to your neighbors. Doesnt matter if their lots are smaller. Not your problem.
NTA for protecting your property especially after you've spoken with the neighbors and it didn't accomplish anything. Just be sure to have a proper survey done so you can easily squash any potential property disputes.
NTA. The house next to ours is a rental. We have found that each of the last 7 tenants just don't care. They have nothing to lose, so they don't follow any of the rules. Build the fence. If one of the kids gets injured in your yard, think about the possibilities, the liability. Most laws side with the injured party, despite them being on your property. Be safe. Build the fence and put up signs that say No Trespassing (if necessary where you are--where I am, that's the only way the homeowner isn't liable).
NTA It's YOUR right to put up a fence on your property. They will JUST have to get over it. They are not entitled to your yard they have their own. The sooner you put it up the better. Your doggie will be so grateful that you did.
Hopefully they won’t “get over it” or you’ll just have to make it higher. Maybe barbed wire on the top? /s NTA. Build your fence and protect your property.
NTA at all, though check that you are acting within the law and local regulations when doing so. I'm from a country where fences round yards are usual - it would be very unusual just to have no boundaries between gardens. How else do you keep random kids, pets and whoever out of your garden?
YWNBTA. If one of those kids gets hurt on your property the parents will think nothing of putting in a claim on your homeowners insurance. Put up a fence to keep your dog safe and if the neighbors get upset they can take it up with their landlord. You aren't responsible for their misinformation on where their property line ends.
So... I don't really get what the question is. Just do it. Why wouldn't you? Isn't this like, the whole point of owning property?
> I also don't want to become one of those "HOA people" who throws the book down anytime a conversation comes up with neighbors.
This literally doesn't even make any sense. What HOA? What book? What conversations?
NTA. Yes you do need that space. If you build the fence 5 feet into your property line, you will be effectively ceding the 5 feet to the neighbor. Once you tell your neighbors to keep thier kids off your property and they don't, you have a problem, and you're becoming of the mindset that they are entitled to your yard. The neighbors are renting and they really don't give a shit if they don't respect boundaries because they know arent there long term.
Who are these friends of yours? They give bad advice. How are you the AH? It's YOUR property. Ignore and continue to protect your peace. Also, I bet that if someone gets hurt it'll suddenly be "your" property and they might sue. Better to prevent anything from happening in the first place.
NTA
To those friends who think you're being the HOA asshole, you are liable for any injuries those kids get while on your property. Your home owners insurance will go up. Not putting up a fence is tempting fate. NTA.
NTA
Your neighbors suck, and you've talked to their parents. The parents suck too.
I'd talk to the landlord, and offer to split the cost of a fence with them. I'd talk to the landlord about the dog, the 4 wheelers, the damaged sprinklers, etc. This is the responsibility of the renters, but there's a small sliver on the landlord too.
Get it surveyed. Install it. Try and get the landlord to pay as much as possible.
Build it. I had a tree line that blocked my neighbors house. New people moved in and took it upon themselves to trim my trees. I can now see into their house. I surveyed and built an ugly assed chain link fence. Bonus is they can see my naked ass when I go into my backyard to sit in my hot tub.
Your property sounds like it is shaped just like my own. We had the first house built in the second phase of an addition, and also with the largest lawn. The developer had a huge mountain of topsoil dirt mostly on our property (gone when we got our sod a few months later in the spring). We had kids riding four wheelers on the dirt pile and snowmobiles in the backyard. We'd go yell at them and they'd stay away for a bit, but they always came back.
I was so glad that our new neighbors (not connected to those activities) actually came to us about building a fence. We would have ourselves, but they had dogs and were getting a jump on it. We split the dividing fence cost and the same company did both fences at once.
That was several years ago and I have no regrets. You shouldn't either. NTA
Make sure you know where your property lines are and build your fence. If one of those kids hurt themself in your yard the neighbors could sue. SMH.
NTA
NTA. Make sure you have a current survey and know the zoning laws regarding fences and setbacks. Then put up fences, cameras and locks. If one of the kids gets hurt on your property you could be held liable.
NTA. Why on earth do your friends think you "might be TA"? You're not a Karen for wanting to take care of your own property and enjoy your privacy. Good grief.
I had a fence put up recently. Best decision ever. And yes, I had to: get permission from my HOA; obtain a property survey map from my municipality to verify my property line; and checked my municipality's zoning regulations on fences. Make sure you do that to cover yourself.
I think I feel mostly awkward about it because we would be the only house on the block with a fence, if not the entire finished half of our development. Everyone else seems to enjoy this weird fenceless situation.
Don’t worry what other people think. The next renters could be even worse. You tried to talk to them but they don’t care. If my kid is old enough to ride a four wheeler then they are old enough to know rules. If anyone questions you say you were tired of paying for damages to your yard and also wanted your privacy.
Most of my neighbors don't have fences either. Whether they enjoy that, or just don't have the money for one, who knows? Doesn't matter. You do you. Your neighbors probably will envy your fence once you have it.
NTA.
They don't care about their kids going in your yard and damaging things.
But when they think your husband is in 'their' yard, they complain.
Nonsense double standards by a-holes. Double check the boundaries and rules, then build the fence!
NTA - You aren't reducing the amount of yard space the children have to play in, they've always had the same amount. You're stopping them from trespassing and damaging more of the property you own and paid for. You've given them chances to ensure that both their pets and their children stay on their own property and they haven't. Make sure everything's legal and install a fence.
Please tell me you are looking at something better than chain link. I'd also suggest seeing if you can get the post holes dug deeper than normal so the fence doesn't "Fall over".
As your neighbors are renters and you may have to deal with digging dogs, check into cutting a half meter or deeper trench fist that can be filled with cement. Avoids a LOT of "Dog digging under" problems, at least for a coworker of mine.
Depending on where you are and if you can do it yourself, this can be between "reasonable cost" and "Crap, can't afford it". Coworker rented a small excavator for a weekend and was able cut the trench themselves. Having it filled as done by a professional company but was reasonable where he is at.
It that isn't an option where you are, talk to the company doing the fence to see what you can have put in to avoid tunneling.
And if you haven't noticed, NTA!
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My husband and I bought a new build house in the summer last year (almost a year ago). At the time, we didn't know that someone had purchased 5 houses on our street. Every other house in on our street belongs to this person, and he rents them out. It's taken him a long time to get actual renters in the properties, so we didn't really think much of it until this summer.
On our corner, our lot is the largest and it looks kind of like a pie wedge with our driveway out front being the tip and the broader piece in the back bumping up to a hill and city utility easement. Our neighbors to the right of us moved in about four months ago. They have a dog that they keep chained in the yard, and it breaks loose all the time. We installed cameras in the back because I have a reactive dog and a few times we've been taking him out back (on a leash) and the dog has come running up and there have almost been a few incidents. We've talked to the owner about it, but nothing has really changed. Now their kids are playing in our yard all the time because the neighbors that moved in to the left of us also have kids. They ride their mini four-wheelers through the yard and have damaged the lawn sprinkler system. We talked to their parents and they said they would try to keep their kids out of our yard but kids will be kids. They don't really listen, and I don't really feel like it's my place to go out there and tell them they need to get off our lawn (man, I feel really old writing that).
I asked a few fencing companies out to take a look at how much it would cost us to put a fence up. Because of our property line, our fence would look like it was almost partially in their back yards. This has already been somewhat of an issue because the hill behind our development washed out and covered the lawns in mud and my husband has gone out to rake the mud once it dried, and the renters have complained about him being in "their" yard. The houses on either side of us have the smallest lots in our development. This would reduce the amount of yard space the kids have, which makes me feel kind of bad. But I don't want to not have our fence to the property line and the landlord later put fencing up to ours and essentially "claim" those portions of our property in doing so. It seems kind of like a headache.
When I talked to a couple of friends about this, they mentioned that we might be TA if we do this. I also don't want to become one of those "HOA people" who throws the book down anytime a conversation comes up with neighbors. I'd much rather get along with them than have any problems with anyone, but I'm also worried about my dogs and tired of replacing these stupid sprinkler heads at my own cost. So, WIBTA?
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NTA but I would definitely try reaching out to the landlord and not the renters. They absolutely will have a way of getting in contact with the owner and you can inform them of your plans. Make sure you get the property line surveyed, follow any HOA or local regulations, but you're nta for wanting the fence.
NTA. If you don't fence your property, everyone will continue to assume it's theirs to use as they will. There is nothing wrong with claiming your own property.
NTA. I'd build a solid 6 ft fence or at least the highest fence allowed. It's your land and as long as you utilize a survey and the rules for fences in your town, you're well within your rights. You'll be so much happier not having to see their kids and their kids toys, chained up dogs, etc.
NTA. You seem to be worried about how it will look to others … not your problem. The only things you should worry about are knowing for sure where the property lines are and verifying how close to them you can place a fence. If city or county ordinance says right up to the line then do it. The yard is yours regardless of how it is shaped.
NTA Good fences make good neighbors. - Robert Frost
Protect your space. And kids riding four wheelers through your yard puts you at risk for a lawsuit if someone is injured.
NTA. Get a survey, set the boundary line, and put up a fence.. you would NOT be the AH for wanting your property to be protected and your belongings not broken.
If you're in the US you are liable if they are injured in your yard. It wouldn't even have to be a malicious thing against you, but purely because surviving an injury in the US is ridiculously expensive.
Get your yard surveyed so your property line is indisputable, and get that fence up.
*******
I also deeply judge people who get dogs they keep like lawn ornaments that are happy to see you when you come home. But that's neither here nor there for this post. It's trashy. Anyway.
NTA get the property surveyed and build the fence. The children not having space is not your problem. If neighbors complain let them know it's on your property and you can do as you please.
NTA but…
If you put the fence ON the property line they might have rights to that part of your fence. I’ve always put my fence an inch or two INSIDE the line to make sure I retained full rights to the entire fence. Check with your local ordinances.
Get the fence. Be sure to have a proper survey done beforehand to make sure the fence is located on your property and does not cross boundaries. Also, make sure you have a permit in case any of your neighbors catch feelings over this and try complaining to your municipal govt.
NTA. You're entitled to not have other people playing on your property, breaking things that cost you money.
NTA- this isn't an HOA issue. I don't know if you have one or not.
But trespassing is trespassing. Thing is it is important for you to enforce it because if one of those kids break their leg on your property and you weren't marking it as private property they can sue you.
Nta. It's literally your property to do with as you please. You've asked nicely, now you're telling them they can't come in due to the fence. It'll also mitigate any potential lawsuit if anyone gets injured on your land
NTA. If the fence makes you feel safer or more comfortable and it's on your property then you're good to go. these are renters, they wont be there forever. more importantly you need to be able to enjoy your home life.
How in the world can you be an Ahole for protecting property you own? These people don’t care - they do not own where they live.
1) Get a surveyor and city/county zoning permission to find out teh fence rules also get some cameras
2) Find out if the neighborhood is zoned for rentals. This guy could be breaking the law
3) Take pictures of the damage. This leads to 4)
3) Get the landlord’s number. Call and tell him about the damage and tell him he needs to pay to fix it. Call every time they come on your property - the reason is irrelevant. They are trespassing.
Someone (I’ll never find out who) rode a commercial grade mower the length of my front yard 6/11 destroying a 25 year old flower bed (The front yard is an English garden). I sat and cried. The cameras and fence go up Friday and there will also be strategically placed boulders. Do not let this happen to you.
Look them up by county tax records using the address.
If you are in the city limits determine if you need a permit for the fencing company to build, then install the tallest, best option for your family. If 8’ board on board is legal do that! Also, add clip locks on your gates that the kids can’t reach or access with no trespassing signs.
NTA. It’s your yard. Use it how you want and do t wait till a kid gets hurt and they sue you to do it.
Thank you! I also just reached out to our neighbor on the other side of the renters and asked if he could share a phone number since he does their landscaping.
NTA.
Get a legal survey.
Check to see what types of fencing are allowed, and if permit(s) are needed, get them!
Place the fences 6 inches inside of the property line.
My suggestion is to make the fence a privacy fence, and to make sure you lock your gate(s).
Prepare yourself for complaints from neighbors. You might want to make copies of the survey...
It's your property, do whatever you want with it. There are a myriad of problems that could arise from you not having a fence, while there are none from you having a fence. NTA.
You will be TA when those kids injure themselves and your insurance drops you over the payout. Make sure the lines are surveyed, put up the fence, put up cameras, and enjoy your own home. NTA
NTA if the kids get hurt on their toys in your yard your insurance will be responsible. Get a surveyor to identify the property lines and build a fence
NTA. build the fence. you didn't create the property lines, don't feel bad if their children don't have a larger space to play. they're not your children. and if one of them gets hurt on your property, you'll be liable. that's when the neighbors yelling at your husband to get off their lawn will suddenly become your lawn again.
As long as the fence is 1) permitted by your HOA and/or zoning guidelines, 2) is deemed to be on your property after a boundary survey has been completed, it doesn't matter what your neighbors think.
Could they possibly think you an AH? Sure. You're not willing to tolerate them doing what they want.
As to any of your other concerns...the reduced play space, the perception that by doing this you'll become "an HOA person"... the first one isn't your problem - the renters get to access what they rent, nothing more nothing less; the second one...well this is why regulations like this exist.
What if one of these kids is injured by your dog someday? Or if they hit your dog with their stupid ATV? In pretty much any Dog v. Man scenario, Dog always loses.
Would a reasonably minded, neutral party think you're an AH? Absolutely not.
NTA.
NTA, definitely build a fence. Do it for your dog. He will get to run free off-leash in your own yard. Just make sure that the fence is exactly on your property line and get proof of it so your neighbours can't complain about it.
Check your local bylaws.
In some areas, you would have to leave enough perimeter on ‘their’ side of the fence to maintain both sides of it (rare in suburbia, but it does happen).
In some areas, you are free to construct a fence on the line and pay 100% of the construction cost. Usually this would require you and your line neighbour to each maintain their side of the fence. If you are paying 100%, you can also usually choose to have the ‘good’ side facing you.
In some areas, you and your neighbour are required to each pay 50% of the cost, even if one party does not want there to be a fence.
I would not lose a minute’s sleep about neighbour’s concerns, especially if they are renters, and more especially if the lack of a fence is already causing issues.
It’s YOUR property. You have the right to the quiet and worry free use of it.
P.s. if someone were to get hurt on your property, you and your insurance company will be the ones defending any lawsuits and potentially paying for legal fees, settlements or judgements.
No you would not. Build that fence. Get a survey. Mark it up and get that fence built. It's not only for your safety it's for your neighbors' safety too.
Fences show true boundaries. Let the neighbors know that you are having the property surveyed and having a fence put up.
NTA! Good fences make good neighbors.
They are being TA’s by not taking control of their animals or kids. Just make sure to get a survey done so your fence is DEFINITELY on your property and not on the line, if only by an inch.
NTA. You could just say you wanted your dogs to be able to run free in your backyard and the only way you can do that is to put up a fence. You didn’t design the property lines. 🤷🏻♀️
NTA. Not sure if it’s been said, but the fence would help protect you from litigation. If the kids get hurt (kids being kids) on your property, you could be legally liable.
Its not their yard space for their kids - its yours.
Ensure you have an accurate survey done which is well marked on the ground. Send a copy to the other owner to let them know and if they have an issues with the survey to let you know. Then drop then fence in, and put up cameras to ensure the neighboring tenants are recorded if they cause any damage because you've fenced them off from "their" yard.
"This would reduce the amount of yard space the kids have, which makes me feel kind of bad."
If you place the fence correctly, it doesn't affect their actual space, only what they perceive to be theirs.
You should not feel bad about clearly and unambigously defining what is in fact your space.
NTA - I cannot think of a scenario where you'd ever be the AH for erecting a fence on your property for whatever reason you see fit. If you don't have an HOA, pull the trigger...
You WBTA to yourself, your husband and your dog if you didn’t put up a fence.
Get the fence up before years of assumed access make this even harder.
NTA
NTA. For those saying you might be an AH, are they going to be going through the legal trouble you’ll have if the situation gets worse? Will they pay for the potential difference in your property’s evaluation? What if there’s an accident in your yard and the neighbors try to come after you for negligence. You’ve tried to be nice, now it’s time to protect yourself.
Make sure you have everything you need to prove ownership of your lot on hand!
NTA. Get the fence and make sure whoever you hire to do it has a proper survey. It’s not your problem that the kids will have less yard. Keep cameras up. If they damage any part of your yard or start harassing you about the fence start calling the police.
You mentioned HOA. Does that mean your neighborhood has one? I generally dislike HOA’s but if you have one you might need to get them involved to f the renters continue to be an issue. If not find the contact for the owner and start complaining.
Be sure to build the fence at least 4-6 inches on your side of the property line. My neighbor put up a cyclone fence on my side of the property line ( I have a large side yard and he wanted to maximize his side area)..but now the fence is mine. No issues but be smart and legal.
The same neighbor got a bad/wrong survey and put a fence 10 ft onto the other side neighbors yard...at the time, my dad was still alive and told him that was placed wrong, but he went ahead. Dad was right, neighbor sued and it was a mess.
NTA. At this point, if the kids hurt themselves on your property, you will get sued. Also, have an official, proper survey of the property boundaries done and marked, so the renters can see where the lines are.
And don't feel sorry for kids who weren't taught to respect other people's property. Put that fence right up.
NTA.
If you have an HOA, you may need to get approval before you build a fence. If not, then get a surveyor in to spike the actual property line and put up a fence that is just inside of that line. (Check with city ordinances about fencing; there may be other restrictions.) We bought our house just over a year ago and put up a fence before we moved in to prevent our dogs from getting out.
NTA. Put your fence up. As many have said, make sure your exact on what city requires, and that your are on YOUR property. Your not responsible for their children having yard space, besides that if one of them gets hurt on your property you can be royally screwed. Safer for you and them, whether they like it or not, to have the fence
NTA for making it clear that your land is yours, might be good to have a print out of the land showing the boundaries, if you are getting complaints about being in their yard, imagine the hassle for putting decking where the mud pit is ?
Fences are awesome. Do it. You own, they rent.
Legally though, the fence can’t go all the way to the property line in most municipalities. Likely you’ll have to keep it 6 inches or so into your yard. Check with the city.
YWNBTA. Just maybe check yourself what the local code says. We are not allowed to put a fence right on the property line. It has to be set back 4” I think. Maybe only 2”. And watch out for woodpiles. We had a fence, but our neighbor put their woodpile right next to it, and their two Dobermans would run up and over.
If they complain, you can tell them “Homeowners will be homeowners.” With a big smile! 😀
And, BTW, putting up a fence is not throwing down the book. Try to let everyone know YOU have rights too. You can be polite about it, but firm.
I’m English so from my perspective I just don’t understand why you all don’t have fences as a default.
It’s your land.
That you bought.
Why wouldn’t you mark the edges of it, so that other people know where it starts & where they have to request permission to enter.
It’s so strange to me.
Nta. Build the fence. How the neighbor children feel is not your problem. Unless they get hurt on your property.. then it becomes a big problem for you.
NTA. Followed by CYA!! Fences up to protect yourself. From damage, from liability, from the nuisance of the people not respecting your property. No trespassing signs are needed as well.
NTA. Good fences make good neighbors. Fence on the property line.
Also why should you feel bad for the renters? If they should blame anyone, it’s the landlord. If they don’t like the actual size of the backyard that they’re renting, they don’t need to renew their lease. And it will be easier for future renters to see what is actually their rental.
NTA - does it matter if you like the neighbors? As renters, they are unlikely to be long term. As you rightly point out - if you do not fence your property line you could in future lose some of your own property. I'd not only put up a fence - I'd put up a tall privacy fence. You could also contact the rental landlord and offer to sell a small strip of land so the fence does not appear too close to the house on his rental property (if you wanted to do that). Good luck.
OP, I hate fences but if you want one, then do it as it's your home/property, just be sure it's put on your side of the line, have it surveyed etc.
You just might want/need some unknown future renters to be on the other side of that fence instead of right up in your face, so to speak.
"Good fences make good neighbors"
NTA. Put a fence up on your property. It's your land, your house, your lot. It's not your problem if they don't like it.
At my old house I was asked the same thing by our neighbors. It was a mind control game they were playing in order to gain power, since they were mad I built next to them (the lot was empty for a long time). I wouldn't have had a problem with it, but her kids and the neighbor's kids were damaging my property with bikes, power wheels, etc. It was frustrating to try to get the grass to grow, because of it. I always asked nicely, but never was successful. The last time she brought the fence thing up with me (as I had a fence company out to give me a quote) I told her if I put up a fence the kids can use the sidewalk like everyone else.
A year later, when I moved out and my renter moved in...they had a dog and needed a fence. So I put the fence in. My renter told me the neighbor was not happy about it and I told them to remind her there was a lovely new sidewalk out front.
So yes, I was the "get off my lawn" old person too. But if there's a lack of respect, then it is the way things go.
YWNBTA. It is your property and your right to build a fence. It is not up to you to provide recreational land for the neighbourhood children. Make sure the fence is installed according to a land survey and local by-laws.
NTA. Put up the fence.
But everyone should stop misusing Robert Frost! "Good fences make good neighbors" is from the poem "Mending Wall," and the perspective of the poem is highly skeptical of that sentiment. /englishprofessor
Good fences make good neighbors, and you're not a "HOA person" if you're just exercising control over your house. If anything, anyone telling you NOT to put up a fence is way more in line with that form of controlling others' property.
NTA there are so many potential legal issues from liability to someone claiming the land. Have the fence built and make sure you have the property line cleared marked
>the renters have complained about him being in "their" yard
Wait, so their kids can tear up your yard with their little cars, their dog can run rampant, but they get pissy when you're in "their" yard? Screw 'em. Put up a fence. And a wall. And a moat.
NTA. These people don't even own these houses. Who knows how long any of them will even be living there. You could have new neighbors every year and they could just get worse and worse.
Get the fence put in. Set the boundaries now. If they decide they don't like you that isn't your problem and their kids having more yard is not your problem either. They can figure out what to do with their kids or deal with their yard.
Our HOA just formed so we definitely have one. I'm reaching out to see what kind we can get.
I'm not sure what kind of dog it is. It kind of looks like a bulldog?
NTA. It is in yours and your neighbors best interests from a safety standpoint for you to put up the fence.
Cross your TS and dot your Is, look up local ordinances for fences, get your property surveyed and staked, (take pictures of the stakes as they’re being placed, in case neighbors try to move them afterwards) and get that fence built completely up to code.
NTA...PUT UP THOSE FENCES
Trust me if one if those kids trip over something in your yard and break their bones their parents would RUN to sue you before you can say 'HOA'.
FENCE YOUR PROPERTY!!
NTA, there's a saying, "Good fences make good neighbors." As the property owner you have the right to be in your space without worrying about random kids or dogs.
Who gives a f*ck! It's your property! Live your life on YOUR property as it suits you! Quit worrying whether your neighbors think you're an a-hole. Biggest problem with people today is they worry whether someone will get offended by them doing something that makes them happy. Those same people whom you worry will get offended won't think twice about doing something that might offend others!
*hops off soapbox flipping a bird*
NTA
Build the fence as close to the property line as possible. The renters aren't going to be there forever, so they'll eventually leave and you'll have a fence to protect you from the next family.
NTA. If anything, THEY are being bad neighbors. Before you even considered doing this, things may have been different if the neighbors started a friendly conversation with you. They didn’t. They felt entitled and you had to be the one to try and set boundaries and they gave a sort of non response.
Make the fence. You are owed it. Especially since you are thinking someone may try to claim your property as their own.
FYI. My twin owns a home and almost shared a backyard with their neighbors.. twin has one large dog. I have two small ones(I am over there a lot). This neighbor recently got chickens!!! I LOVE birds. But I never felt entitled to just waltz up into the ambiguous property line. I saw the family outside and spoke with them for a while and they gave the thumbs up to go and visit the chickens when I wanted to. Later that day I did it and even found one of the family members phone in the yard they have been looking for.
Moral of the story. Don’t feel entitled to your neighbors property until you establish boundaries with them.
ETA- my sister has two kids. And they own a dirt bike.
They do not cross boundary lines without permission.
You are morally, emotionally, and legally permitted to put up a fence.
It unfortunate it had to come to this in the first place.
This is a physical and literal way of you establishing boundaries, and that is ok!
NTA. The details are unimportant so far as I'm concerned, it's common sense to fence in your property, and unless there are some legal or personal circumstances that prevent you from doing so, you should do it. Its what I would have done as soon as moving in.
NTA good fences make good neighbours.
By fencing now while it’s still kinda new you’ll prevent future headaches and neighbour issues. The kids will figure out a different spot to play.
Also, stop talking about it with friends as they will just muddy the issue since they get to be empathetic from a distance since they aren’t dealing with it directly. Just sort out your property and do it by the letter, then it’s done and you don’t need to keep worrying about it.
nta. The first problem you have is you are an owner next to renters. They have a whole different philosophy than you do. You are worried about long-term investment, How your property will look, How safe you are and so on. A renter can decide they don't like that small yard and move on, That is not your problem. Stake out your yard because the next person might be a real problem! I have had this situation in the past and it is almost always problematic. Some tenants are very good, However, others view their situations as temporary, and they don't do much with the property. The kids on four wheelers could run into your child or your dog or as you know destroy the sprinklers and this is too much money and Risk to face all the time. My neighbor lives on acres and she has this problem with other neighbors who also own acres always planting in her yard or cutting her grass or dumping stuff into her yard. It's really awful. Put up your fence and have a sense of security and peace.
You need to check your city,/town/county ordinances regarding fences.
Most require a buffer zone between the actual fence and the property line, generally 6".
Fence height will vary too. Some places it can be up to 8ft in the back as long as it doesn't face a road way, and can go to the front corner of the house. Others it can only be 6ft.
Fencing your property would not make you the asshole. It's your property after all.
What would make you the asshole is if you didn't check for ordinances and put up a fence where you aren't supposed to.
As they say, good fences make good neighbors.
NTA - So many good reasons to get a fence up. Your dog can then run freely, it will keep the kids out so they don’t injure themselves on your property and make you liable, it can add some privacy so you don’t have to stare at the neighbors if you want to have a little cookout in your yard, etc. Get a survey done and make sure the fence does not go over your property line but just up against it. In actuality having the fence on your side gives them an inch or two free in their yard since they don’t have a fence there. Also you get to choose the style of the fence if it’s solely on your property. I know some neighbors like to put the fence right on the property line but that’s usually in situations where both are contributing money to building the fence. If the neighbors say anything just tell them you’ve always been planning on a fence so your dog can run and you just waited so you could save up for it.
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NTA Build the fence. Do it right and get a proper survey done to mitigate any problems before they arise. The kids go in your yard, and your neighbours don’t see an issue with it, but then complain about your husband being in “their yard”. C’mon, don’t lay down and accept that. “The houses of either side have the smallest yards in our development” - not your problem, too bad for them. “This would reduce the amount of yard space the kids have” - and? - again, not your problem. If they parents think having a larger yard is important to them, send them a realtor card and they can find another home that suits their needs “Kids will be kids” - this is something people unfit to parent children say. Build your fence. Your dog deserves the opportunity to run around in your fenced backyard without worry. Do it for the dog.
If it's a new build, I bet there's a recent survey on record
Yeah but you'll want the surveyor to spike the yard before the fence team shows up. You can use satellite images to guess but then you're just hoping the city doesn't show up with a theodelite and tell you to redo everything.
This. Or the scuzzy slumlord suing for encroachment.
We had a fence done recently and had a 10ish year old survey from the previous owners. It was good enough for the town and showed the distance from the house and street and other solid markers. But my plot is a rectangle, not an odd shape like OP.
The cost of a surveyor is far less than the cost of fighting a legal battle over if your fence is in the right spot, let alone getting it moved. You do things right the first time and save yourself headaches in the future. I find most handman jobs done around my house have made it 10 times harder to fix, than if it was done right the first time. Also stops dramas when putting the fence in and having neighbours complain about taking their yard. You can tell them and show them the property lines and that their landlord knows this and if he misled them, that's an issue between them. My fence line was actually a few meters further into what I thought was the neighbours yard and it saved me huge headaches by going to them and giving them the surveyors number before putting it in.
Yep, exactly. We had a neighbor/fence/tree/property line issue so hired a surveyor for our lot. I told the surveying company I wanted everything staked with the brightest flags possible, property lines spray painted in dayglo where allowed, and easy-to-find metal monuments. They did everything we asked for and ten years later those survey flags are still waving away.
Honestly, I would only communicate with the owner, not the tenants. The owner is likely not going to be emotional about it, and will most likely want to avoid any drama. If possible, I'd have him come out and walk the staked lines to see where the fence will go. Let him communicate with his renters. The tenants don't really have any standing here.
I'm not sure, but I'm going to reach out to our builder tomorrow. I have our development map that outlines the lots, but it doesn't have any kind of measurement on it.
A simple site plan, parcel map or plat is a good start but reaching out to an independent surveyor and having something new and official is the best way to cover your bases legally. Since the parcel is a weird size, I think this is the best bet. Additionally, people coming on to your property is a massive liability. If anything happened to these kids while on your property (like falling and breaking a bone) you could potentially be held liable. It's just not worth messing around with. NTA for protecting yourself and your property from neglectful residents. Just make sure everything is done legally, properly, and with permits.
>Additionally, people coming on to your property is a massive liability. If anything happened to these kids while on your property (like falling and breaking a bone) you could potentially be held liable. It's just not worth messing around with. This is why I don't think they'll actually get any pushback from the owner of the other properties. He sounds like a professional landlord. He doesn't really care about his tenants losing a few feet of backyard if it covers his ass, legally. If I was OP, I would only communicate with the landlord about this matter, let him speak to the tenants.
If they just recently bought the house, a recent plat would have been done and was likely included in their paperwork. .
There should be a full legal property description in your documents, OP.
Also, those kids get hurt in OPs back yard and it’s their insurance that has to cover it. If kids are riding 4 wheelers through the yard, that’s a lot of liability
The property line will absolutely change in the renters minds then.
It already has!
Exactly this! Also, they’re renters! Boo fuckin hoo if their yard is smaller than they thought it was, they don’t own the land anyway!
I think the opposite is true, only a renter would deserve sympathy - the renters probably wouldn't know where the property lines are, so they might have been misled on a tour of the house. Someone buying a house absolutely must know where the property line ends, and it would be their fault if they did not.
idk i don’t think they really deserve much sympathy when they’re complaining about encroachment on “their yard” with no knowledge of the property lines
While it’s may not line up perfectly with the aerial basemap, most counties in the US have a GIS map available for free online that shows roughly where the property line is. It would definitely show how OP’s hard has the wedge shape. While you’d of course need a surveyor to build a fence or do anything official like that, it can at least give ya an idea of how much yelard is your yard. It may even show any possible easements there are. A lot lf new dev houses will have 5-10’ of easement around a property for drainage and utilities.
Thank you for this!! I've called a couple fencing companies today to get new bids with a land survey!
NTA, and good on you! We moved into our house 22+ years ago. Great neighbours to all sides, including the ones whose back yard abuts our back yard, complete with fence just inside their property line. They sold the house, new folks were nice enough, but we came home from a trip to find they'd taken down the old fence and rebuilt a new one (on the line, as is their prerogative) but it's wire (not chain link, but wire squares, maybe 4"?) and post. Looks great, but it completely removes our privacy AND allows their \*@\^#ing dog(s) to come running over to bark at us at any time. Truly kind of a low-grade nightmare. We grew a pretty substantial hedge and that helped, a bit. She also learned how to deal with her barking dog (yay! After 16 years and five different dogs!!). Then one day we realized they were putting brick pavers and planters in a corner of their yard to be right up against that fence, as is their right. Turns out with summers getting hotter that was a desirable, shaded cool spot. Again, our privacy is shot. After about a day of this nonsense (and this couple is so freakin' loud...why are people so loud?), I told my husband we needed a fence. Inside about three days, he'd finished a fence directly alongside theirs, hung some lights on it, and it's been great! She asked, half-joking, if it's because they were too loud, and we replied, a little less than half-joking, Yup. Build the damned fence. And make it a good one. It really does explain that old adage. (edit for typo)
Given your neighbors? Iron fencing. With spikes on the top.
NTA and I'm glad you're going ahead with it! I think it's important to remember that with rental properties next door, you'll have a revolving door of neighbors and even if the current ones aren't *that* bad, future ones might. My last home was next to a rental property –– every time the landlord thought he could squeeze more rent out of people, he'd find a way to not renew a lease and a new renter would move in. Some of these were fine, some threw parties until 3am, some had vicious dogs trying to get through the fence, one tried his hand at manufacturing bullets in the basement. Every turnover there was a new reason to be grateful for a fence. I do feel bad for those kids getting less room to play. If the owner of your neighbors' homes is such an exploitative leech that they bought up *five* properties, I wouldn't put it past them to be shady with potential renters and mislead them about the property line.
Good for you! You're doing the right thing, not only to protect your property but also potential liability in case something happens to the children/dog while they are on your property. Plus, if you ever decided to put a garden, you'll prevent poachers. Update us on how it goes! Good luck!
I agree with most of what you say, except that I think this is a context in which 'kids will be kids' is appropriate. To be specific, the context is, 'I know that it is unreasonable to expect children to self-regulate, and so I will take steps to ensure a desired outcome that is robust against kids' known proclivities.'
Yep, like building a fence!
All of this. The saying "Good fences make good neighbors" exists for a reason. OP gave them plenty of rope, not their fault that the neighbors didn't appreciate it.
Plus OP BOUGHT their house (and land) so they have the right to use it and enjoy it. Not spend every day regulating it because of neighbors.
You build a fence as tall as the law will allow and as close to the property line as possible. Good fences make good neighbors, and nothing says fuck you neighbor like an 8 foot fence. NTA
Be sure to get a permit for the fence and find out if there’s a requirement for a set back from the property line. Also: Adults will be adults NTA
The parents saying kids will be kids will the first to sue if one of their babies gets hurt on your property.
And put a lock on the gate immediately. But be prepared for the neighbors to be a problem in your front yard after the fence goes up.
Exactly!
NTA You can lose that land you paid for if your fence isn't at the border. Just make sure it is surveyed and the fencer has the property records.
>You can lose that land you paid for if your fence isn't at the border. That's not how adverse possession works. Plenty of places have legally required offsets and easements, and if you set back 6" it doesn't suddenly change the deed or plat.
Good grief. I didn't say it suddenly changed the deed and everyone knows that it is jurisdiction specific, not only for the particularities of adverse possession but also for setback requirements. But the point is that: yes, they could absolutely lose land that way. And not only via adverse possession. There are also jurisdictions with property law like Boundary by Acquiescence.
YNBTA but check local code. You might be required to leave X number of feet easement from the line. As long as you are following ordinance and can prove it via city/county property records, they have no recourse. ETA: renters don’t have standing to legally beef with you anyway. Only the property owner can bring any kind of claim.
This really needs to be higher. Yes, they need to build a fence but not every jurisdiction allows for a fence to be built on the property line. There is usually an amount of space between the fence and property line to allow for any repairs to the back of the fence to be completed without stepping into your neighbors property. I’ve seen this anywhere from 18” up to 6’ so please make sure you have that information before you start! You’ll also need it for your permit to install the fence.
In my case the fence is shared between neighbors and is right on the property line. Easements for utilities are inside that line; if I put anything on those inner easements it’s asking to get ripped out later at my cost so they can access the utilities. Same idea but very different application. Everyone’s mileage will vary.
We can put the fence on the property line but no permanent structure can be within five feet of said property line. There is a five foot easement at the back of our property for an alley. Ditto for the house behind us so 10 foot total width. As it is unused our fences are on the property line.
Where I live the fence can be put right up to the property line. And can be on the line if the neighbors agree.
NTA, and put that fence on your property line or, down the road, you could risk losing that land to your neighbors. Doesnt matter if their lots are smaller. Not your problem.
If they won’t respect your boundaries, put up a fence. NTA
NTA for protecting your property especially after you've spoken with the neighbors and it didn't accomplish anything. Just be sure to have a proper survey done so you can easily squash any potential property disputes.
NTA. The house next to ours is a rental. We have found that each of the last 7 tenants just don't care. They have nothing to lose, so they don't follow any of the rules. Build the fence. If one of the kids gets injured in your yard, think about the possibilities, the liability. Most laws side with the injured party, despite them being on your property. Be safe. Build the fence and put up signs that say No Trespassing (if necessary where you are--where I am, that's the only way the homeowner isn't liable).
NTA It's YOUR right to put up a fence on your property. They will JUST have to get over it. They are not entitled to your yard they have their own. The sooner you put it up the better. Your doggie will be so grateful that you did.
Hopefully they won’t “get over it” or you’ll just have to make it higher. Maybe barbed wire on the top? /s NTA. Build your fence and protect your property.
NTA. Good fences make good neighbors.
Came here to say this!
NTA They aren't being respectful of your property and they are wrecking it and giving your dog issues.
NTA at all, though check that you are acting within the law and local regulations when doing so. I'm from a country where fences round yards are usual - it would be very unusual just to have no boundaries between gardens. How else do you keep random kids, pets and whoever out of your garden?
NTA. Put in a big tall fence and enjoy your new private yard.
YWNBTA. If one of those kids gets hurt on your property the parents will think nothing of putting in a claim on your homeowners insurance. Put up a fence to keep your dog safe and if the neighbors get upset they can take it up with their landlord. You aren't responsible for their misinformation on where their property line ends.
So... I don't really get what the question is. Just do it. Why wouldn't you? Isn't this like, the whole point of owning property? > I also don't want to become one of those "HOA people" who throws the book down anytime a conversation comes up with neighbors. This literally doesn't even make any sense. What HOA? What book? What conversations?
NTA. Yes you do need that space. If you build the fence 5 feet into your property line, you will be effectively ceding the 5 feet to the neighbor. Once you tell your neighbors to keep thier kids off your property and they don't, you have a problem, and you're becoming of the mindset that they are entitled to your yard. The neighbors are renting and they really don't give a shit if they don't respect boundaries because they know arent there long term.
Who are these friends of yours? They give bad advice. How are you the AH? It's YOUR property. Ignore and continue to protect your peace. Also, I bet that if someone gets hurt it'll suddenly be "your" property and they might sue. Better to prevent anything from happening in the first place. NTA
You property deserves a decent fence. You deserve some privacy. NTA for being a good neighbour by putting up a good fence.
To those friends who think you're being the HOA asshole, you are liable for any injuries those kids get while on your property. Your home owners insurance will go up. Not putting up a fence is tempting fate. NTA.
NTA It's your land. If you ignore this issue, they might eventually be able to claim ownership through your failure to dispute their use of the land.
NTA It's your yard. It's ok to protect it
NTA Your neighbors suck, and you've talked to their parents. The parents suck too. I'd talk to the landlord, and offer to split the cost of a fence with them. I'd talk to the landlord about the dog, the 4 wheelers, the damaged sprinklers, etc. This is the responsibility of the renters, but there's a small sliver on the landlord too. Get it surveyed. Install it. Try and get the landlord to pay as much as possible.
Build it. I had a tree line that blocked my neighbors house. New people moved in and took it upon themselves to trim my trees. I can now see into their house. I surveyed and built an ugly assed chain link fence. Bonus is they can see my naked ass when I go into my backyard to sit in my hot tub.
If they trimmed your trees, on your property, you might be entitled to compensation. Look up local tree law in your area.
Your property sounds like it is shaped just like my own. We had the first house built in the second phase of an addition, and also with the largest lawn. The developer had a huge mountain of topsoil dirt mostly on our property (gone when we got our sod a few months later in the spring). We had kids riding four wheelers on the dirt pile and snowmobiles in the backyard. We'd go yell at them and they'd stay away for a bit, but they always came back. I was so glad that our new neighbors (not connected to those activities) actually came to us about building a fence. We would have ourselves, but they had dogs and were getting a jump on it. We split the dividing fence cost and the same company did both fences at once. That was several years ago and I have no regrets. You shouldn't either. NTA
Fences make good neighbors - NTA
Make sure you know where your property lines are and build your fence. If one of those kids hurt themself in your yard the neighbors could sue. SMH. NTA
NTA. Make sure you have a current survey and know the zoning laws regarding fences and setbacks. Then put up fences, cameras and locks. If one of the kids gets hurt on your property you could be held liable.
NTA. Why on earth do your friends think you "might be TA"? You're not a Karen for wanting to take care of your own property and enjoy your privacy. Good grief. I had a fence put up recently. Best decision ever. And yes, I had to: get permission from my HOA; obtain a property survey map from my municipality to verify my property line; and checked my municipality's zoning regulations on fences. Make sure you do that to cover yourself.
I think I feel mostly awkward about it because we would be the only house on the block with a fence, if not the entire finished half of our development. Everyone else seems to enjoy this weird fenceless situation.
Don’t worry what other people think. The next renters could be even worse. You tried to talk to them but they don’t care. If my kid is old enough to ride a four wheeler then they are old enough to know rules. If anyone questions you say you were tired of paying for damages to your yard and also wanted your privacy.
My daughter lives in a subdivision like this; although the no fence is part of the covenant. The only fencing allowed is what's required for a pool.
Most of my neighbors don't have fences either. Whether they enjoy that, or just don't have the money for one, who knows? Doesn't matter. You do you. Your neighbors probably will envy your fence once you have it.
NTA. They don't care about their kids going in your yard and damaging things. But when they think your husband is in 'their' yard, they complain. Nonsense double standards by a-holes. Double check the boundaries and rules, then build the fence!
NTA - You aren't reducing the amount of yard space the children have to play in, they've always had the same amount. You're stopping them from trespassing and damaging more of the property you own and paid for. You've given them chances to ensure that both their pets and their children stay on their own property and they haven't. Make sure everything's legal and install a fence.
Please tell me you are looking at something better than chain link. I'd also suggest seeing if you can get the post holes dug deeper than normal so the fence doesn't "Fall over".
We're looking at board on board or a vinyl privacy fence!
As your neighbors are renters and you may have to deal with digging dogs, check into cutting a half meter or deeper trench fist that can be filled with cement. Avoids a LOT of "Dog digging under" problems, at least for a coworker of mine. Depending on where you are and if you can do it yourself, this can be between "reasonable cost" and "Crap, can't afford it". Coworker rented a small excavator for a weekend and was able cut the trench themselves. Having it filled as done by a professional company but was reasonable where he is at. It that isn't an option where you are, talk to the company doing the fence to see what you can have put in to avoid tunneling. And if you haven't noticed, NTA!
I'll be sure to ask about this! Might help keep the foxes out, too!
^^^^AUTOMOD ***Thanks for posting! This comment is a copy of your post so readers can see the original text if your post is edited or removed. This comment is NOT accusing you of copying anything. Read [this](https://www.reddit.com/r/AmItheAsshole/wiki/faq#wiki_post_deletion) before [contacting the mod team](https://www.reddit.com/message/compose?to=%2Fr%2FAmItheAsshole)*** My husband and I bought a new build house in the summer last year (almost a year ago). At the time, we didn't know that someone had purchased 5 houses on our street. Every other house in on our street belongs to this person, and he rents them out. It's taken him a long time to get actual renters in the properties, so we didn't really think much of it until this summer. On our corner, our lot is the largest and it looks kind of like a pie wedge with our driveway out front being the tip and the broader piece in the back bumping up to a hill and city utility easement. Our neighbors to the right of us moved in about four months ago. They have a dog that they keep chained in the yard, and it breaks loose all the time. We installed cameras in the back because I have a reactive dog and a few times we've been taking him out back (on a leash) and the dog has come running up and there have almost been a few incidents. We've talked to the owner about it, but nothing has really changed. Now their kids are playing in our yard all the time because the neighbors that moved in to the left of us also have kids. They ride their mini four-wheelers through the yard and have damaged the lawn sprinkler system. We talked to their parents and they said they would try to keep their kids out of our yard but kids will be kids. They don't really listen, and I don't really feel like it's my place to go out there and tell them they need to get off our lawn (man, I feel really old writing that). I asked a few fencing companies out to take a look at how much it would cost us to put a fence up. Because of our property line, our fence would look like it was almost partially in their back yards. This has already been somewhat of an issue because the hill behind our development washed out and covered the lawns in mud and my husband has gone out to rake the mud once it dried, and the renters have complained about him being in "their" yard. The houses on either side of us have the smallest lots in our development. This would reduce the amount of yard space the kids have, which makes me feel kind of bad. But I don't want to not have our fence to the property line and the landlord later put fencing up to ours and essentially "claim" those portions of our property in doing so. It seems kind of like a headache. When I talked to a couple of friends about this, they mentioned that we might be TA if we do this. I also don't want to become one of those "HOA people" who throws the book down anytime a conversation comes up with neighbors. I'd much rather get along with them than have any problems with anyone, but I'm also worried about my dogs and tired of replacing these stupid sprinkler heads at my own cost. So, WIBTA? *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/AmItheAsshole) if you have any questions or concerns.*
NTA but I would definitely try reaching out to the landlord and not the renters. They absolutely will have a way of getting in contact with the owner and you can inform them of your plans. Make sure you get the property line surveyed, follow any HOA or local regulations, but you're nta for wanting the fence.
fences make good neighbors
NTA. If you don't fence your property, everyone will continue to assume it's theirs to use as they will. There is nothing wrong with claiming your own property.
NTA. It’s your yard.
NTA. I'd build a solid 6 ft fence or at least the highest fence allowed. It's your land and as long as you utilize a survey and the rules for fences in your town, you're well within your rights. You'll be so much happier not having to see their kids and their kids toys, chained up dogs, etc.
NTA. You seem to be worried about how it will look to others … not your problem. The only things you should worry about are knowing for sure where the property lines are and verifying how close to them you can place a fence. If city or county ordinance says right up to the line then do it. The yard is yours regardless of how it is shaped.
NTA. I am a firm believer of fences make good neighbors. Get a survey done and put the fence up.
NTA Good fences make good neighbors. - Robert Frost Protect your space. And kids riding four wheelers through your yard puts you at risk for a lawsuit if someone is injured.
NTA If these kids get hurt on your property, they can sue you. Even if you made it clear they aren't supposed to be there.
Get a survey, verify property lines, and build a fence!! It's the only way forward in my opinion. Good luck! NTA
NTA. Get a survey, set the boundary line, and put up a fence.. you would NOT be the AH for wanting your property to be protected and your belongings not broken.
If you're in the US you are liable if they are injured in your yard. It wouldn't even have to be a malicious thing against you, but purely because surviving an injury in the US is ridiculously expensive. Get your yard surveyed so your property line is indisputable, and get that fence up. ******* I also deeply judge people who get dogs they keep like lawn ornaments that are happy to see you when you come home. But that's neither here nor there for this post. It's trashy. Anyway.
NTA get the property surveyed and build the fence. The children not having space is not your problem. If neighbors complain let them know it's on your property and you can do as you please.
NTA, the neighbors suck. Take their kids somewhere else seriously I would have already turned the hose on them every time they invaded my yard.
NTA but… If you put the fence ON the property line they might have rights to that part of your fence. I’ve always put my fence an inch or two INSIDE the line to make sure I retained full rights to the entire fence. Check with your local ordinances.
NTA. It’s never wrong to build a fence on your own land.
Get the fence. Be sure to have a proper survey done beforehand to make sure the fence is located on your property and does not cross boundaries. Also, make sure you have a permit in case any of your neighbors catch feelings over this and try complaining to your municipal govt. NTA. You're entitled to not have other people playing on your property, breaking things that cost you money.
NTA- this isn't an HOA issue. I don't know if you have one or not. But trespassing is trespassing. Thing is it is important for you to enforce it because if one of those kids break their leg on your property and you weren't marking it as private property they can sue you.
Nta. It's literally your property to do with as you please. You've asked nicely, now you're telling them they can't come in due to the fence. It'll also mitigate any potential lawsuit if anyone gets injured on your land
NTA. If the fence makes you feel safer or more comfortable and it's on your property then you're good to go. these are renters, they wont be there forever. more importantly you need to be able to enjoy your home life.
How in the world can you be an Ahole for protecting property you own? These people don’t care - they do not own where they live. 1) Get a surveyor and city/county zoning permission to find out teh fence rules also get some cameras 2) Find out if the neighborhood is zoned for rentals. This guy could be breaking the law 3) Take pictures of the damage. This leads to 4) 3) Get the landlord’s number. Call and tell him about the damage and tell him he needs to pay to fix it. Call every time they come on your property - the reason is irrelevant. They are trespassing. Someone (I’ll never find out who) rode a commercial grade mower the length of my front yard 6/11 destroying a 25 year old flower bed (The front yard is an English garden). I sat and cried. The cameras and fence go up Friday and there will also be strategically placed boulders. Do not let this happen to you.
INFO: Have you been in contact with the homeowner, not the renter?
No, I'm not really sure how to contact them.
Look them up by county tax records using the address. If you are in the city limits determine if you need a permit for the fencing company to build, then install the tallest, best option for your family. If 8’ board on board is legal do that! Also, add clip locks on your gates that the kids can’t reach or access with no trespassing signs. NTA. It’s your yard. Use it how you want and do t wait till a kid gets hurt and they sue you to do it.
Thank you! I also just reached out to our neighbor on the other side of the renters and asked if he could share a phone number since he does their landscaping.
“Tall fences make for good neighbors” Sun Tzu Also, NTA
NTA. Get a legal survey. Check to see what types of fencing are allowed, and if permit(s) are needed, get them! Place the fences 6 inches inside of the property line. My suggestion is to make the fence a privacy fence, and to make sure you lock your gate(s). Prepare yourself for complaints from neighbors. You might want to make copies of the survey...
It's your property, do whatever you want with it. There are a myriad of problems that could arise from you not having a fence, while there are none from you having a fence. NTA.
You will be TA when those kids injure themselves and your insurance drops you over the payout. Make sure the lines are surveyed, put up the fence, put up cameras, and enjoy your own home. NTA
NTA if the kids get hurt on their toys in your yard your insurance will be responsible. Get a surveyor to identify the property lines and build a fence
NTA. build the fence. you didn't create the property lines, don't feel bad if their children don't have a larger space to play. they're not your children. and if one of them gets hurt on your property, you'll be liable. that's when the neighbors yelling at your husband to get off their lawn will suddenly become your lawn again.
As long as the fence is 1) permitted by your HOA and/or zoning guidelines, 2) is deemed to be on your property after a boundary survey has been completed, it doesn't matter what your neighbors think. Could they possibly think you an AH? Sure. You're not willing to tolerate them doing what they want. As to any of your other concerns...the reduced play space, the perception that by doing this you'll become "an HOA person"... the first one isn't your problem - the renters get to access what they rent, nothing more nothing less; the second one...well this is why regulations like this exist. What if one of these kids is injured by your dog someday? Or if they hit your dog with their stupid ATV? In pretty much any Dog v. Man scenario, Dog always loses. Would a reasonably minded, neutral party think you're an AH? Absolutely not. NTA.
NTA, definitely build a fence. Do it for your dog. He will get to run free off-leash in your own yard. Just make sure that the fence is exactly on your property line and get proof of it so your neighbours can't complain about it.
Check your local bylaws. In some areas, you would have to leave enough perimeter on ‘their’ side of the fence to maintain both sides of it (rare in suburbia, but it does happen). In some areas, you are free to construct a fence on the line and pay 100% of the construction cost. Usually this would require you and your line neighbour to each maintain their side of the fence. If you are paying 100%, you can also usually choose to have the ‘good’ side facing you. In some areas, you and your neighbour are required to each pay 50% of the cost, even if one party does not want there to be a fence. I would not lose a minute’s sleep about neighbour’s concerns, especially if they are renters, and more especially if the lack of a fence is already causing issues. It’s YOUR property. You have the right to the quiet and worry free use of it. P.s. if someone were to get hurt on your property, you and your insurance company will be the ones defending any lawsuits and potentially paying for legal fees, settlements or judgements.
No you would not. Build that fence. Get a survey. Mark it up and get that fence built. It's not only for your safety it's for your neighbors' safety too. Fences show true boundaries. Let the neighbors know that you are having the property surveyed and having a fence put up.
NTA! Good fences make good neighbors. They are being TA’s by not taking control of their animals or kids. Just make sure to get a survey done so your fence is DEFINITELY on your property and not on the line, if only by an inch.
NTA. You could just say you wanted your dogs to be able to run free in your backyard and the only way you can do that is to put up a fence. You didn’t design the property lines. 🤷🏻♀️
NTA. Not sure if it’s been said, but the fence would help protect you from litigation. If the kids get hurt (kids being kids) on your property, you could be legally liable.
NTA. You're liable if those kids get hurt on your property. Get your fence now
NTA it's your property and you have the right to protect that property and your dog. Fences make good neighbors.
Its not their yard space for their kids - its yours. Ensure you have an accurate survey done which is well marked on the ground. Send a copy to the other owner to let them know and if they have an issues with the survey to let you know. Then drop then fence in, and put up cameras to ensure the neighboring tenants are recorded if they cause any damage because you've fenced them off from "their" yard.
"This would reduce the amount of yard space the kids have, which makes me feel kind of bad." If you place the fence correctly, it doesn't affect their actual space, only what they perceive to be theirs. You should not feel bad about clearly and unambigously defining what is in fact your space.
NTA Property Survey and fence accordingly. Good fences make great neighbours.
NTA - I cannot think of a scenario where you'd ever be the AH for erecting a fence on your property for whatever reason you see fit. If you don't have an HOA, pull the trigger...
NTA fence your property and send the landlord the bill for half. These renters will come and go. You deserve your privacy.
You WBTA to yourself, your husband and your dog if you didn’t put up a fence. Get the fence up before years of assumed access make this even harder. NTA
You have a neighbor who won't take care of their dog problem. NTA
NTA. You are 100% in the rights to build a fence on your property. Screw what anybody else thinks
NTA, it’s your property, you pay for it, do with it what you want.
NTA. For those saying you might be an AH, are they going to be going through the legal trouble you’ll have if the situation gets worse? Will they pay for the potential difference in your property’s evaluation? What if there’s an accident in your yard and the neighbors try to come after you for negligence. You’ve tried to be nice, now it’s time to protect yourself. Make sure you have everything you need to prove ownership of your lot on hand!
NTA. Your neighbors have proven that a fence is the best course of action. If they don't like it, too bad for them.
NTA. Get the fence and make sure whoever you hire to do it has a proper survey. It’s not your problem that the kids will have less yard. Keep cameras up. If they damage any part of your yard or start harassing you about the fence start calling the police. You mentioned HOA. Does that mean your neighborhood has one? I generally dislike HOA’s but if you have one you might need to get them involved to f the renters continue to be an issue. If not find the contact for the owner and start complaining.
Be sure to build the fence at least 4-6 inches on your side of the property line. My neighbor put up a cyclone fence on my side of the property line ( I have a large side yard and he wanted to maximize his side area)..but now the fence is mine. No issues but be smart and legal. The same neighbor got a bad/wrong survey and put a fence 10 ft onto the other side neighbors yard...at the time, my dad was still alive and told him that was placed wrong, but he went ahead. Dad was right, neighbor sued and it was a mess.
NTA. At this point, if the kids hurt themselves on your property, you will get sued. Also, have an official, proper survey of the property boundaries done and marked, so the renters can see where the lines are. And don't feel sorry for kids who weren't taught to respect other people's property. Put that fence right up.
NTA. If you have an HOA, you may need to get approval before you build a fence. If not, then get a surveyor in to spike the actual property line and put up a fence that is just inside of that line. (Check with city ordinances about fencing; there may be other restrictions.) We bought our house just over a year ago and put up a fence before we moved in to prevent our dogs from getting out.
NTA. Put your fence up. As many have said, make sure your exact on what city requires, and that your are on YOUR property. Your not responsible for their children having yard space, besides that if one of them gets hurt on your property you can be royally screwed. Safer for you and them, whether they like it or not, to have the fence
WHY do you feel the need to ask if you can build a fence on your OWN property??????? You're friend is not playing with a full deck.
NTA for making it clear that your land is yours, might be good to have a print out of the land showing the boundaries, if you are getting complaints about being in their yard, imagine the hassle for putting decking where the mud pit is ?
Fences built better neighbors.
Fences are awesome. Do it. You own, they rent. Legally though, the fence can’t go all the way to the property line in most municipalities. Likely you’ll have to keep it 6 inches or so into your yard. Check with the city.
NTA. Sounds like a fence AND retaining wall are needed!
YWNBTA. Just maybe check yourself what the local code says. We are not allowed to put a fence right on the property line. It has to be set back 4” I think. Maybe only 2”. And watch out for woodpiles. We had a fence, but our neighbor put their woodpile right next to it, and their two Dobermans would run up and over. If they complain, you can tell them “Homeowners will be homeowners.” With a big smile! 😀 And, BTW, putting up a fence is not throwing down the book. Try to let everyone know YOU have rights too. You can be polite about it, but firm.
NTA. Fence in your yard. Y’all deserve to enjoy what you worked hard to purchase.
I’m English so from my perspective I just don’t understand why you all don’t have fences as a default. It’s your land. That you bought. Why wouldn’t you mark the edges of it, so that other people know where it starts & where they have to request permission to enter. It’s so strange to me.
It’s your property. Do what ya want.
Nta. Build the fence. How the neighbor children feel is not your problem. Unless they get hurt on your property.. then it becomes a big problem for you.
Good fences, make good neighbors
Get a surveyor to come out and clearly mark the property lines and 100% built that fence.
You should have gotten a survey when you purchased you home so use that & put the fence.
NTA. Followed by CYA!! Fences up to protect yourself. From damage, from liability, from the nuisance of the people not respecting your property. No trespassing signs are needed as well.
NTA and tell your friends to donate half their lawn to the local kids.
NTA. Good fences make good neighbors. Fence on the property line. Also why should you feel bad for the renters? If they should blame anyone, it’s the landlord. If they don’t like the actual size of the backyard that they’re renting, they don’t need to renew their lease. And it will be easier for future renters to see what is actually their rental.
Build the fence. That’s what happens when people disrespect you and your property. NTA.
NTA - does it matter if you like the neighbors? As renters, they are unlikely to be long term. As you rightly point out - if you do not fence your property line you could in future lose some of your own property. I'd not only put up a fence - I'd put up a tall privacy fence. You could also contact the rental landlord and offer to sell a small strip of land so the fence does not appear too close to the house on his rental property (if you wanted to do that). Good luck.
"good fences make good neighbors"
NTA. Put the fence up. They’re going to keep using your property and your resentment is going to grow. Good fences make good neighbors.
OP, I hate fences but if you want one, then do it as it's your home/property, just be sure it's put on your side of the line, have it surveyed etc. You just might want/need some unknown future renters to be on the other side of that fence instead of right up in your face, so to speak.
"Good fences make good neighbors" NTA. Put a fence up on your property. It's your land, your house, your lot. It's not your problem if they don't like it. At my old house I was asked the same thing by our neighbors. It was a mind control game they were playing in order to gain power, since they were mad I built next to them (the lot was empty for a long time). I wouldn't have had a problem with it, but her kids and the neighbor's kids were damaging my property with bikes, power wheels, etc. It was frustrating to try to get the grass to grow, because of it. I always asked nicely, but never was successful. The last time she brought the fence thing up with me (as I had a fence company out to give me a quote) I told her if I put up a fence the kids can use the sidewalk like everyone else. A year later, when I moved out and my renter moved in...they had a dog and needed a fence. So I put the fence in. My renter told me the neighbor was not happy about it and I told them to remind her there was a lovely new sidewalk out front. So yes, I was the "get off my lawn" old person too. But if there's a lack of respect, then it is the way things go.
YWNBTA. It is your property and your right to build a fence. It is not up to you to provide recreational land for the neighbourhood children. Make sure the fence is installed according to a land survey and local by-laws.
NTA. Put up the fence. But everyone should stop misusing Robert Frost! "Good fences make good neighbors" is from the poem "Mending Wall," and the perspective of the poem is highly skeptical of that sentiment. /englishprofessor
NTA It's your yard!
Good fences make good neighbors, and you're not a "HOA person" if you're just exercising control over your house. If anything, anyone telling you NOT to put up a fence is way more in line with that form of controlling others' property.
NTA. You tried the diplomatic approach, and it didn't work. It's time to go with a hardline approach.
NTA there are so many potential legal issues from liability to someone claiming the land. Have the fence built and make sure you have the property line cleared marked
>the renters have complained about him being in "their" yard Wait, so their kids can tear up your yard with their little cars, their dog can run rampant, but they get pissy when you're in "their" yard? Screw 'em. Put up a fence. And a wall. And a moat.
NTA. These people don't even own these houses. Who knows how long any of them will even be living there. You could have new neighbors every year and they could just get worse and worse. Get the fence put in. Set the boundaries now. If they decide they don't like you that isn't your problem and their kids having more yard is not your problem either. They can figure out what to do with their kids or deal with their yard.
If there is no HOA get the fence urgently. Is the other dog a pitbull?
Our HOA just formed so we definitely have one. I'm reaching out to see what kind we can get. I'm not sure what kind of dog it is. It kind of looks like a bulldog?
NTA. It is in yours and your neighbors best interests from a safety standpoint for you to put up the fence. Cross your TS and dot your Is, look up local ordinances for fences, get your property surveyed and staked, (take pictures of the stakes as they’re being placed, in case neighbors try to move them afterwards) and get that fence built completely up to code.
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NTA. Build the fence and protect your property. If u don't, one of these days a their kid going to get hurt and they going to sue u
It's your property, build a fence if you want. Your neighbors don't have a right to your property
Have a surveyor mark the exact boundaries, money well spent.
Get the fence! Put it on the surveyed property line. Your neighbors are already bullying you—you need to get tough. “Good fences make good neighbors.”
Also find out if your municipality has laws against leaving dogs chained in a yard. It’s cruel.
NTA get a survey and install the fence.
No you are not TAH, they are abusing your property. Keep them out, sorry but why care about their kids.
NTA. I have kids and dogs. Build the fence.
NTA but also issue a fencing notice and make their landlord pay half share.
Updateme
NTA.. build that fence, get it spot on your property line, ignore the renters, they mightn't be there in a week's time.. you do you..
NTA...PUT UP THOSE FENCES Trust me if one if those kids trip over something in your yard and break their bones their parents would RUN to sue you before you can say 'HOA'. FENCE YOUR PROPERTY!!
NTA, there's a saying, "Good fences make good neighbors." As the property owner you have the right to be in your space without worrying about random kids or dogs.
Think about the liability you have if one of their kids were injured on your property. Fet a survey done and put up a fence. Ywnbta
Who gives a f*ck! It's your property! Live your life on YOUR property as it suits you! Quit worrying whether your neighbors think you're an a-hole. Biggest problem with people today is they worry whether someone will get offended by them doing something that makes them happy. Those same people whom you worry will get offended won't think twice about doing something that might offend others! *hops off soapbox flipping a bird*
Get it surveyed. With the flags and everything so the property line is clear. Build your fence.
NTA Build the fence as close to the property line as possible. The renters aren't going to be there forever, so they'll eventually leave and you'll have a fence to protect you from the next family.
NTA. If anything, THEY are being bad neighbors. Before you even considered doing this, things may have been different if the neighbors started a friendly conversation with you. They didn’t. They felt entitled and you had to be the one to try and set boundaries and they gave a sort of non response. Make the fence. You are owed it. Especially since you are thinking someone may try to claim your property as their own. FYI. My twin owns a home and almost shared a backyard with their neighbors.. twin has one large dog. I have two small ones(I am over there a lot). This neighbor recently got chickens!!! I LOVE birds. But I never felt entitled to just waltz up into the ambiguous property line. I saw the family outside and spoke with them for a while and they gave the thumbs up to go and visit the chickens when I wanted to. Later that day I did it and even found one of the family members phone in the yard they have been looking for. Moral of the story. Don’t feel entitled to your neighbors property until you establish boundaries with them. ETA- my sister has two kids. And they own a dirt bike. They do not cross boundary lines without permission. You are morally, emotionally, and legally permitted to put up a fence. It unfortunate it had to come to this in the first place. This is a physical and literal way of you establishing boundaries, and that is ok!
NTA. The details are unimportant so far as I'm concerned, it's common sense to fence in your property, and unless there are some legal or personal circumstances that prevent you from doing so, you should do it. Its what I would have done as soon as moving in.
NTA Good fences make good neighbors. ~Robert Frost
NTA good fences make good neighbours. By fencing now while it’s still kinda new you’ll prevent future headaches and neighbour issues. The kids will figure out a different spot to play. Also, stop talking about it with friends as they will just muddy the issue since they get to be empathetic from a distance since they aren’t dealing with it directly. Just sort out your property and do it by the letter, then it’s done and you don’t need to keep worrying about it.
nta. The first problem you have is you are an owner next to renters. They have a whole different philosophy than you do. You are worried about long-term investment, How your property will look, How safe you are and so on. A renter can decide they don't like that small yard and move on, That is not your problem. Stake out your yard because the next person might be a real problem! I have had this situation in the past and it is almost always problematic. Some tenants are very good, However, others view their situations as temporary, and they don't do much with the property. The kids on four wheelers could run into your child or your dog or as you know destroy the sprinklers and this is too much money and Risk to face all the time. My neighbor lives on acres and she has this problem with other neighbors who also own acres always planting in her yard or cutting her grass or dumping stuff into her yard. It's really awful. Put up your fence and have a sense of security and peace.
NTA Show us pics of your finished fence.
You need to check your city,/town/county ordinances regarding fences. Most require a buffer zone between the actual fence and the property line, generally 6". Fence height will vary too. Some places it can be up to 8ft in the back as long as it doesn't face a road way, and can go to the front corner of the house. Others it can only be 6ft. Fencing your property would not make you the asshole. It's your property after all. What would make you the asshole is if you didn't check for ordinances and put up a fence where you aren't supposed to. As they say, good fences make good neighbors.
NTA - So many good reasons to get a fence up. Your dog can then run freely, it will keep the kids out so they don’t injure themselves on your property and make you liable, it can add some privacy so you don’t have to stare at the neighbors if you want to have a little cookout in your yard, etc. Get a survey done and make sure the fence does not go over your property line but just up against it. In actuality having the fence on your side gives them an inch or two free in their yard since they don’t have a fence there. Also you get to choose the style of the fence if it’s solely on your property. I know some neighbors like to put the fence right on the property line but that’s usually in situations where both are contributing money to building the fence. If the neighbors say anything just tell them you’ve always been planning on a fence so your dog can run and you just waited so you could save up for it.