Thinking about building a new fence, but share a property line with a neighbor? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions we hear at Heron Building Co, and we’re here to walk you through it. Whether you’re looking for privacy, better curb appeal, or a safe space for kids and pets, building a fence can be a great improvement—but it’s important to get it right from the start.
Here are five key things to know before you start a shared a fence project in Tennessee.
1. Always Know (and Respect) the Property Line
Before you do anything, get clear on where your property begins and ends. This isn’t just a good neighbor move—it’s a legal one. The best way to do this? Get a professional survey of your property if you don’t already have one. Even if your plat map shows an approximate boundary, a survey ensures everyone’s on the same page.
Pro Tip: We never recommend building a fence directly on the property line. Instead, it should be fully on one side or the other—and typically about 6 inches inside the owner’s property line. That way, there’s no confusion about who owns the fence or who’s responsible for maintenance.
Learn more about our custom fencing services in Tennessee
2. Understand Local Fence Laws & HOA Rules
Depending on where you live, your city or HOA may have specific rules about fences. These can include height limits, material restrictions, and setback requirements. For example, many neighborhoods in Middle Tennessee have height restrictions on front yard fencing or require certain materials (like wood or aluminum) to match community aesthetics.
If you’re part of an HOA, be sure to check your community’s bylaws before moving forward. We’re happy to help you navigate local codes during your estimate. You can also see Metro Nashville Fencing Regulations.
3. Have the Fence Conversation Early
This can feel awkward, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’re the one initiating the fence project, it’s a good idea to talk to your neighbor early. Let them know why you want a fence—privacy, safety, pets, or simply a better look for your yard.
How to approach it:
- Be friendly and transparent. Let them know you’re just beginning the process and wanted to keep them in the loop.
- Reassure them that the fence will go on your side. This often helps ease concerns.
- Offer the benefits. A new fence can improve curb appeal and increase property values on both sides. You might even find they’d like to share the cost!
If they aren’t on board with splitting costs, that’s okay too. You’re still allowed to build on your property.
4. Decide on Style, Height & Material
Even if you’re covering the cost of the fence yourself, it’s nice to consider how the fence will look from both sides. Some materials have a more polished “double-sided” look (like a horizontal wood fence or a good neighbor design), while others may have a finished front and a visible back.
Popular shared fence styles in Tennessee include:
- Board-on-board privacy fencing (attractive on both sides)
- Horizontal wood fencing (modern and clean)
- Aluminum fencing (low-maintenance and classic)
We’ll help you find a design that balances aesthetics, function, and budget—especially for fence lines that face two households. See our favorite fencing styles here.
5. Work with a Fence Contractor Who Knows the Process
Building a fence in a shared space isn’t a DIY moment. You need an experienced contractor who can help you:
- Confirm property lines
- Handle permitting if required
- Design a fence that works for both households
- Install it to last, with proper footing and drainage
At Heron Building Co, we guide you through every step. We’ll make sure your fence is built to last—with high-quality materials, clean lines, and thoughtful design.
We also help you avoid common pitfalls like unclear property lines or mismatched styles.
You Don’t Have to Navigate It Alone
Shared fences can feel complicated—but they don’t have to be. With a little planning and clear communication, your new fence can be a win for both you and your neighbor. And when you work with a team like Heron Building Co, you get more than just great craftsmanship—you get peace of mind.
Ready to plan your fence project?
Let’s talk through the details together. Schedule your free fence estimate now.
Heron Building Co is a Premier Fence & Gate Contractor in Nashville and Franklin, catering to luxury homeowners and specializing in design-forward fencing services with a focus on premium materials, top-notch craftsmanship, and above and beyond customer service. We have a decade of experience in residential and commercial fencing and outdoor craftsmanship.
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